Knicks Face Expensive Off-Season as Key Reserves Reach Free Agency
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Fresh off their first championship since 1973, the New York Knicks are headed into a costly summer that could push them into the NBA’s second tax apron.
All five starters are locked in through 2026/27, but three rotation pieces—center Mitchell Robinson, wing Landry Shamet and rookie forward Mohamed Diawara—are entering free agency. Even without new deals for that trio, New York already projects to sit at the first apron. Re-signing any of them would almost certainly trigger the stricter second-apron penalties, which would block the club from aggregating salaries in trades and limit outside signings to veteran-minimum contracts.
An extension for starting center Karl-Anthony Towns is also on the agenda. Towns averaged 20.1 points, his lowest figure since his rookie season, yet impressed the front office with two-way production during the playoffs.
Bridges, Hart Embrace Roles in Title Run
Mikal Bridges, acquired for five first-round picks and often criticized for uneven scoring, said the championship lifted a weight off his shoulders. Teammates echoed his “Fk them picks” refrain after Saturday’s Game 5 clincher.
Forward Josh Hart highlighted the value of starring in a non-scoring role. “Everybody wants to be the guy that scores the most … that wasn’t my path,” Hart said. “When you’re a star in your role … that breeds winning basketball.”
Draft Workout and Health Improvements
Duke forward Isaiah Evans, No. 24 on ESPN’s big board, participated in a group workout at Madison Square Garden and is a candidate for New York’s Nos. 24 or 31 selections in next week’s draft.
The Knicks’ title run also benefited from improved health after hiring longtime Mavericks performance chief Casey Smith as vice president of sports medicine in 2024. Outside of OG Anunoby’s two-game absence for a mild hamstring strain, no regular missed time during the postseason.
Source: HoopsRumors
