New York Knicks Have Massive Decision to Make on Final Roster Spot Ahead of 2026

The New York Knicks had another fantastic campaign in 2024/25, and while they fell short of an NBA Finals appearance after losing in the Eastern Conference Finals, they've set themselves up for sustained success in the future. Heading into next season, the likes of Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart all remain locked up, with the roster all but set heading into training camp.

With the additions of Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele, this bench has become much, much deeper, but with one final roster spot remaining and a veteran minimum to give out, the Knicks have a big decision to make.

According to reports from reporter Ian Begley, that decision could come down to Landry Shamet or Ben Simmons, with the team seemingly keeping an eye on both as potential options to fill that role.

These players bring something different to the table, as Simmons is an elite defender who can help as another ball handler, but with his injury history, it would be a major risk. As for Shamet, he didn't have much of a role with New York last season, but when he was asked to step up in the playoffs, he did so in a big way, getting the crowd at Madison Square Garden on their feet for his hot shooting and intense play multiple times.

Regardless of which player they choose (between these two or even other veterans), the Knicks figure to be one of the deepest and most talented teams in the East, and with injuries making things wide open, this could be their year to make a run to the NBA Finals.