Knicks fans ponder frontcourt depth as New York loads up on guards while exploring options for big men like Thomas Bryant
With last season’s Eastern Conference finals exit at the hands of the Indiana Pacers still fresh in their minds, the New York Knicks have made significant moves this offseason. The front office has been busy, reshaping the roster and adding new talent, particularly in the backcourt.
Guard-Heavy Acquisitions
The Knicks made headlines by signing veteran sixth man Jordan Clarkson, a player known for his scoring ability and energy off the bench. They also brought in Guerschon Yabusele, a versatile stretch big who previously played for the Celtics and 76ers. These additions come on the heels of hiring Mike Brown as head coach, a former Sacramento Kings leader, signaling a fresh direction for the team.
Most notably, the Knicks recently added Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet, further bolstering their guard lineup. With such a strong focus on backcourt depth, one question resonates among Knicks fans: Is there enough frontcourt depth to support this guard-heavy roster?
Concerns in the Frontcourt
While the Knicks have solid players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson anchoring their center position, the depth beyond them is concerning. The team lacks another proven center, which could be a significant issue as they look to compete in the coming season. Former second-round pick Ariel Hukporti has only seen action in 25 career games, and it’s uncertain whether he’s ready to take on a major role in the rotation.
Yabusele offers some flexibility as a stretch five, but his size may be a disadvantage against more traditional centers in the league. The departure of Precious Achiuwa in free agency has left the Knicks looking thin at the big man position.
Roster Implications
With Brogdon and Shamet likely to secure their spots on the roster, the Knicks would find themselves at full capacity, complicating their ability to make further moves. This situation raises the stakes for acquiring Thomas Bryant, widely regarded as the best big man still available in free agency. Bryant recently worked out for the Knicks, and his addition could significantly enhance their frontcourt.
Additionally, the team has been evaluating other big men, including centers Trey Jemison III and the seasoned Alex Len, both of whom have also participated in recent workouts with the Knicks.
As the Knicks navigate their offseason, the balance between a loaded backcourt and a potentially thin frontcourt remains a pressing concern for fans and analysts alike. The decisions made in the coming weeks will undoubtedly shape the team’s prospects for the upcoming season.
