Knicks Reach Training Camp Signatures as Players Find New Homes
The Knicks are gearing up for training camp, but some former players are still on the move. Reports indicate that Precious Achiuwa has joined the Heat, while Deron Wright is set to commit to the Pacers.
It’s worth noting that neither player’s contract is guaranteed, which means they’ll need to compete hard for a spot on the roster.
Achiuwa, who spent his last two seasons with the Knicks, expressed dissatisfaction with his role after the team was eliminated. Surprisingly, he opened up to a publication about his feelings just after the playoffs wrapped up.
Having attended high school in the Bronx, Achiuwa made a splash by purchasing a luxurious condo in South Beach earlier this summer. So, it seems that moving to the Heat fits quite nicely for him.
Wright played a role in the Knicks’ rotation during the playoffs. He was acquired by New York mid-season in a trade involving Jericho Sims.
Interestingly, Cam Payne remains the only player from last season’s Knicks team who hasn’t landed with another NBA team yet.
Miles McBride recently shared his enthusiasm regarding Mike Brown’s offensive strategy, reflecting on what the Knicks had described as a “stagnant” playstyle last season. He mentioned, “Sometimes we were relying on a lot of quarantine shots. I think this year we’ll be more fluid with our movements, lots of cutting and working together.”
The Knicks boasted the NBA’s fifth-best offense last season. However, after the All-Star break, their dependency on isolated plays with Jalen Brunson became glaringly apparent, especially during the playoffs.
Assuming he’s not traded, 25-year-old McBride is heading into his fifth season with the Knicks. He’s part of a busy roster alongside players like Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Jordan Clarkson, Malcolm Brogdon, and Landry Shamet.
On a different note, Mitchell Robinson’s performance in the playoffs was marred by poor free throw shooting, leading to some unusual strategies, including intentionally fouling him, which wasn’t exactly a highlight for the coaching staff.
Brown emphasized the importance of consistent messaging regarding player development. “We need a clear game plan. We have to be precise with what we communicate to Robinson—maybe just one or two key things—but it’s crucial that everyone on the staff is aligned,” he stated.
