The New York Knicks secured Jalen Brunson with a team-friendly contract extension, giving them financial flexibility to strengthen their roster. The Knicks aim to build a stronger team for a deep playoff run by targeting affordable veteran players and potential trades for key frontcourt additions.
- Jalen Brunson’s new contract gives the Knicks money flexibility to improve the team.
- Robert Williams, Gordon Hayward, Jalen Duren, Precious Achiuwa, and Danilo Gallinari are possible trades and signings.
- After losing Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency, the Knicks aim to strengthen their frontcourt.
Jalen Brunson’s New Contract: What It Means for the Knicks
On Friday, the New York Knicks celebrated a significant achievement in their offseason goals by getting Jalen Brunson to sign a team-friendly contract extension. This was a big win for the team during a very busy few weeks.
The Knicks made headlines by trading for Brooklyn Nets star Mikal Bridges and re-signing OG Anunoby to a substantial extension.
However, they lost a valuable player, Isaiah Hartenstein, to the Oklahoma City Thunder in free agency.
Despite losing Hartenstein, the Knicks have had a great offseason. They improved their standing further when ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski announced that Jalen Brunson had agreed to a new four-year, $156.5 million contract extension.
This deal pays Brunson $113 million less than the max extension he could have signed next summer, which surprised many.
The main reason for this deal is to give Brunson a pay raise starting in 2025-26 while also keeping the Knicks’ finances flexible to improve the team now and in the future.
This extension keeps the Knicks under the tough second tax level and allows them to keep their mid-level contract exception and remaining trade exceptions.
Key Targets to Strengthen the Knicks
With Jalen Brunson’s new contract giving the Knicks more financial flexibility, they can now focus on adding key players to their roster. Here are some top targets:
Robert Williams
One of the team’s main priorities after losing Hartenstein is to add more depth in the frontcourt. While there have been rumors about trading for Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler, the asking price seems too high. So, former Boston Celtics big man Robert Williams could be a good option.
Williams’ style of play would fit well in coach Tom Thibodeau’s system, making him worth considering, even if it means higher spending. His defense and shot-blocking would greatly improve the Knicks’ frontcourt.
Jalen Duren
A dream target for the Knicks would be Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren. Known for his rebounding and defense, Duren would be a perfect replacement for Hartenstein. However, getting him might be tough because the Pistons value him highly. If the Knicks can make a fair trade, Duren would greatly improve their frontcourt.
Danilo Gallinari
The Knicks could consider bringing back former first-round pick Danilo Gallinari to add more strength to their frontcourt. After a tough season following a torn ACL, Gallinari could be an affordable option to improve the team’s depth. His experience and scoring ability off the bench would be valuable.
Gordon Hayward
The Knicks have shown interest in Toronto Raptors player Gary Trent Jr., but he might be too expensive. A more affordable option could be former All-Star Gordon Hayward. Despite his injury history, Hayward could still provide valuable minutes off the bench.
Using the mid-level exception to sign him would add depth and experience without spending too much.
Precious Achiuwa
Precious Achiuwa was a valuable addition to the Knicks last season. He stepped up when Hartenstein, Robinson, and Julius Randle missed games. Achiuwa’s ability to guard multiple positions makes him a key player for the Knicks.
He will likely get a raise, and the mid-level exception should be enough to re-sign him.
Should the Knicks Trade for Jalen Duren?
The Knicks still need a center to replace Isaiah Hartenstein, who signed a big deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder. This need has led them to look for affordable players to help the frontcourt. One of these players is third-year pro Jalen Duren, who has reportedly caught the Knicks’ interest.
Duren, 20, is still one of the youngest players in the league despite entering his third NBA season. He has averaged 11.4 points and 10.2 rebounds per game for the Pistons and has become one of their key players. However, the Pistons might be willing to trade him for the right price.
Although a trade for Duren seems unlikely, the Knicks should explore this option. Duren’s potential to develop under coach Tom Thibodeau could make him a strong defender and rim protector.
Strengthening the Knicks for a Championship Run
The New York Knicks have taken big steps this offseason. Jalen Brunson’s team-friendly contract gives them the money flexibility to improve their roster.
By targeting key players like Robert Williams, Gordon Hayward, Jalen Duren, Precious Achiuwa, and Danilo Gallinari, the Knicks can strengthen their frontcourt and boost their chances for a championship run.
Smart trades and signings will position the Knicks as strong contenders in the Eastern Conference, ready to make a deep playoff run and compete for the title.
