TITLE: Knicks assess backup point guard options; Rockets add Daishen Nix, Caleb McConnell; Grant Hill targets 2027 World Cup for Team USA
SLUG: knicks-backup-point-guard-rockets-nix-mcconnell-team-usa-world-cup
CONTENT:
NEW YORK — Malcolm Brogdon’s unexpected retirement has pushed the New York Knicks into a search for a new reserve point guard.
According to the New York Post, the front office is weighing three scenarios: complete a trade, give second-year guard Tyler Kolek extended minutes, or distribute ball-handling duties among Miles “Deuce” McBride, Jordan Clarkson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges.
Starter Jalen Brunson expressed confidence in the internal candidates. “We’re in good hands, great hands,” Brunson said. “Kolek’s been getting better every day. Deuce has been getting better every day. Those guys come in and work nonstop. When their number’s called, they’ll be ready.”
Head coach Mike Brown echoed that sentiment. “We feel like we have a deep roster,” Brown said. “A lot of guys will have an opportunity to grab whatever minutes are available.”
Forward Guerschon Yabusele is also working through a slow start, shooting 3-for-13 over three preseason games. “It’s a new team with new guys,” Yabusele said. “I’m trying to fit into the system and be a solution, not a problem.”
Rockets bring back Nix, sign McConnell
HOUSTON — The Rockets have signed guards Daishen Nix and Caleb McConnell, Spotrac’s Keith Smith reported. Both agreements are believed to be Exhibit 10 contracts, which include bonuses of up to $85,300 if a player spends at least 60 days with the G League’s Rio Grande Valley Vipers.
Nix, a former Houston two-way player, has logged 99 NBA appearances and split last season between the Timberwolves and the Vipers. He averaged 15.3 points and 7.0 assists in the G League but battled turnovers and efficiency issues.
McConnell, a 6-foot-7 defensive specialist out of Rutgers, played last season with the Greensboro Swarm, putting up 6.8 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. The two-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year is expected to join the Vipers as well.
Hill sets World Cup priority for Team USA
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Newly appointed head coach Erik Spoelstra is now in charge of Team USA, and managing director Grant Hill says the focus is clear: win the FIBA World Cup.
“Winning the World Cup is our first order of business,” Hill told reporters. The United States last captured the title in 2014, finishing seventh in 2019 and fourth in 2023.
Hill added that USA Basketball is working to build a deeper talent pipeline, noting that prospects such as Cooper Flagg and Evan Mobley could be part of the 2027 roster. “The world is getting better, but we are too,” he said. “We have great young players in this country. It’s on me to get out and recruit and share the importance of doing this.”
Source: Hoops Wire
