Knicks Acquire New Center James Nnaji
The Knicks have added a fresh face to their lineup, welcoming big man James Nnaji.
According to sources, Nnaji has expressed his desire to leave his previous career in Europe and join the Knicks, as confirmed by a recent report. The Knicks secured his rights in a trade involving the Hornets, which was finalized during the off-season, related to the deal for Karl Anthony Towns.
Nnaji is currently in New York and working with the team, as his agent, Gerald Raventos, mentioned to the press. Nnaji is looking to join the Summer League team with hopes of securing a spot on the final roster.
“If things go well, we hope to reach an agreement after the Summer League,” Raventos stated. “It’s a joint plan, really—50-50. Ultimately, it hinges on his performance this summer. He’s got the potential to be phenomenal.”
The Hornets originally drafted Nnaji, but with a 31st pick in the 2023 draft, he opted to stay in Europe for the last couple of seasons. Nnaji has impressive physical attributes; he stands 7 feet tall and weighs 251 pounds, boasting a remarkable 7-foot-7 wingspan and a 9-foot-4 reach.
Last season, he spent a significant amount of time on loan at Girona, where he averaged 5.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. He also played for the Turkish side Eukatel Merkese Fendi basket, averaging 7.5 points and 4.0 rebounds.
The Knicks might face challenges with frontcourt depth, especially with valuable free agents potentially leaving. Other centers on the roster include Ariel Hukporti, who was the 58th pick in last year’s draft. Unfortunately, Hukporti’s rookie season was impacted by a knee injury, leading to averages of just 1.9 points and 2.0 rebounds over 25 games.
As of June 30, the Knicks have limited options for adding new talent to their roster due to financial constraints, primarily relying on minimum contracts or the taxpayer exception of $5.7 million.
Nnaji might fit within those financial boundaries, providing a potential avenue to enhance the team’s talent pool. Although his offensive skills still need refinement, he has the physical tools to evolve into a strong rim protector and rebounder under the new head coach.
