Leon Rose and the Knicks have been concentrating on trades and free agency to strengthen their roster, while the Spurs have regained their status as favorites by effectively utilizing their draft picks, recently clinching a win in a rematch of the 1999 NBA Finals.
Here’s a look at how the Knicks have come together.
Jalen Brunson
When he arrived: 2022
How he was acquired: He signed a four-year, $104 million deal in free agency, which initially seemed steep but has proved to be quite the steal.
How he helped them get here: Brunson has emerged as a franchise point guard, often labeled “Captain Clutch.” His impactful presence transformed the Knicks into legitimate championship contenders, solidifying his legacy as a postseason hero, averaging 26.3 points per game.
Karl Anthony Towns
When he arrived: 2024
How he was acquired: A long-standing connection saw him traded from Minnesota for a package that included Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo.
How he helped them get here: Growing up a Knicks supporter, Towns is recognized as one of the top shooting centers ever. He averaged 22.2 points and 12.3 rebounds across two seasons with the team, playing a crucial role as the point center, particularly during the playoffs.
OG Anunoby
When he arrived: 2023
How he was acquired: Anunoby, alongside Precious Achiuwa, came over in a trade that sent RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to the Raptors.
How he helped them get here: Known primarily for his defense, Anunoby has also developed a scoring touch, averaging 19.7 points per game in the playoffs. His skill set makes him invaluable, even earning him the heftiest contract in Knicks history at $212.5 million.
Josh Hart
When he arrived: 2023
How he was acquired: Hart was traded from the Trail Blazers, with the Knicks sending Cam Reddish in return.
How he helped them get here: Hart has seamlessly adjusted to various roles with the team, whether starting or coming off the bench, and his dynamic adaptability has been a key asset.
Mikal Bridges
When he arrived: 2024
How he was acquired: Bridges joined via a significant trade that sent five first-round picks to the Nets.
How he helped them get here: Renowned for his defensive skills and resilience, Bridges’ costly acquisition led to mixed feelings among fans, especially during moments when he was benched. However, his performance during the Knicks’ impressive winning streak helped reshape his image, as he averaged 16.6 points shooting an outstanding 62.6 percent.
Miles McBride
When he arrived: 2021
How he was acquired: He was selected in the second round after the Knicks traded down to the 36th pick.
How he helped them get here: McBride’s three-year, $13 million extension in 2023 proved to be a smart investment, particularly as he has stepped up off the bench, showing his knack for three-point shooting.
Mitchell Robinson
When he arrived: 2018
How he was acquired: He was chosen 36th overall in the second round of the 2018 draft.
How he helped them get here: Robinson has been with the team the longest, navigating through injuries and challenges. Although he shared the center role with Towns, he remains the top offensive rebounder and interior defender, achieving a personal best of 73 games played this season.
Landry Shamet
When he arrived: 2024
How he was acquired: Shamet was signed two weeks prior to the start of training camp and re-signed on a non-guaranteed contract last summer.
How he helped them get here: Shamet’s critical three-pointer that sent Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals into overtime highlights his impact on the team, especially given his journey back from injuries.
Jordan Clarkson
When he arrived: 2025
How he was acquired: After being bought out by the Jazz, Clarkson signed a veteran minimum contract with the Knicks.
How he helped them get here: Though his season has been rocky, Clarkson found his way back into the lineup. He brought veteran experience, averaging just 8.6 points, but still managed to shine in key moments.
Jose Alvarado
When he arrived: 2026
How he was acquired: Alvarado was traded from the Pelicans in exchange for Darren Terry and a couple of second-round picks to bolster the Knicks’ guard lineup.
How he helped them get here: Returning to his roots in New York, Alvarado is an electrifying player who thrives under pressure and is effective at creating turnovers, leaving his mark during crucial moments.
Ariel Hakporti
When he arrived: 2024
How he was acquired: Hakporti’s rights were acquired on draft day after he was picked 58th overall by the Mavericks.
How he helped them get here: As the Knicks’ third center, Hakporti has stepped up when needed, proving his worth with noteworthy contributions in pivotal games.
Tyler Kolek
When he arrived: 2024
How he was acquired: The Knicks traded up to pick him 34th overall, giving away three second-round picks in the process.
How he helped them get here: Kolek quickly endeared himself to fans with strong performances, but he now finds himself fighting for playing time as he adjusts to team dynamics.
Mohamed Diawara
When he arrived: 2025
How he was acquired: The Knicks selected him with the 51st overall pick.
How he helped them get here: While more of a G League player for now, Diawara has shown potential, contributing crucial points during important matchups and providing depth.
Jeremy Sochan
When he arrived: 2026
How he was acquired: He signed with the Knicks in February after being waived by the Spurs.
How he helped them get here: Sochan’s time has been limited, but when called upon, he’s managed to hold his own, stepping up during critical moments as an emergency option.
Pacome Dadiet
When he arrived: 2024
How he was acquired: Drafted 25th overall by the Knicks, he was just 18 at the time.
How he helped them get here: Currently playing in the G League, Dadiet has shown promise and could emerge as a valuable rotation player given more time and experience.
