Knicks Seek to Strengthen Bench for Upcoming Season
The New York Knicks’ bench didn’t see much action last season under coach Tom Thibodeau. The starters, including Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby, logged an impressive amount of playing time, often relegating the bench to minimal minutes. At one point, things became so one-sided that Bridges even asked Thibodeau to involve the bench more often.
Thibodeau was let go after the Knicks reached the Eastern Conference Finals, with Mike Brown taking over management during a high-pressure season reminiscent of the days with Patrick Ewing. As the 2025-26 season approaches, New York is bringing back its entire starting lineup while also looking to bolster the bench. Gershon Yabusele and Jordan Clarkson were previously signed, and on Friday, they added another veteran guard under Executive Leon Rose’s guidance. Rose aims to keep the starters fresh for the playoffs by managing their minutes more effectively.
Malcolm Brogdon has agreed to a one-year contract with the Knicks, as reported by ESPN insider Shams Charania. The 32-year-old was the NBA Rookie of the Year back in 2014, notably during a time when the Milwaukee Bucks ousted Joel Embiid and Dario Saric. He also garnered the NBA Sixth Man of the Year title in 2023 while playing for the Boston Celtics.
After being traded from Boston to the Portland Trail Blazers as part of a deal involving Jrue Holiday, Brogdon is now in search of stability. The Celtics clinched an NBA Championship the year after his departure, and he was then traded again to the Washington Wizards, where he played only 24 games.
Can Brogdon return to his former self from his Boston days? If so, this could be a significant acquisition for the Knicks. He’s capable of playing the point guard position but doesn’t necessarily need the ball in his hands to make an impact. With a 38.8% shooting rate from beyond the arc, he excels in spot-up situations. Brogdon was also known as a solid defender in his early career, and if he aspires to fulfill a key role with Brown, he will need to showcase his defensive capabilities during games.
This season, the Knicks might finally have a robust bench. Mitchell Robinson and Miles McBride are already recognized as one of the top bench duos in the league. Yabusele adds depth on the wings, while Clarkson and Brogdon both have solid careers behind them, although they need to demonstrate they’re still effective players. The bench also features promising young talents like Tyler Colek, Pacom Dadiette, and Ariel Fukulti. If one of them can elevate their game, it could significantly enhance the team’s overall depth.
Brogdon has reportedly signed a non-guaranteed contract and will be vying for a roster spot at training camp alongside Laundry Chamett.
Overall, the Knicks are gearing up for a competitive season, aiming to contend with the Cleveland Cavaliers for the top seed in the East. Brogdon hasn’t been a regular contributor in his recent years, but the Knicks are taking a low-risk chance that could pay off as they look to make a deep playoff run.
