Knicks Likely to Pursue Former NBA Rookie of the Year and 40% 3-Point Shooter

The New York Knicks are ready to win the Eastern Conference. They have been knocking on the door for a couple of seasons now, but the East looks wide open, and the Knicks are fully prepared to take advantage. 

Their core of Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby is by far the most talented group in the East. With the Celtics and Pacers both likely to take a step back with injured stars, the Knicks need to battle out with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Orlando Magic for the Eastern Conference title. 

Trevor Ruszkowski, 2025 — Landry Shamet, Andrew Nembhard — Imagn Images

Despite having such strong starters, the Knicks' bench has been a source of problems for them these last few seasons. That’s why the Knicks' free agency signings this offseason are so important. 

Ian Begley recently reported on two players the New York Knicks are highly considering signing in free agency. 

“Knicks have had dialogue with free agent Ben Simmons over the course of the offseason and certainly have had interest in him, but club has never made a formal offer to Simmons, per league sources. Landry Shamet, Malcolm Brogdon among those on NYK radar for its lone roster spot.”

Both Shamet and Brogdon would be solid pieces for the Knicks' bench. Shamet showed promise for the Knicks last season. He shot nearly 40% from three and scored 5.7 points per game in limited minutes. 

Brogdon was also playing a limited role last season, but put up decent numbers. He scored 12.7 points and averaged 4.1 assists in 24 games for the Washington Wizards. 

While neither Shamet nor Brogdon is going to be the reason the Knicks finally make the NBA Finals, they could help take some pressure off the Knicks' starters. Having a more restful regular season may be the one thing that can help make the Knicks top contenders for an NBA championship.