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[New York Knicks]

Who Really Wore It Best? Bernard King vs. Jeremy Lin

The King vs. Linsanity

First things first, it’s time to take jersey numbers out of the equation; they’ve become irrelevant. From here on out, it’s simply about one thing: “Who wore the orange and blue best?” No surprise, Jalen Brunson ran through Marcus Camby, and now he moves on to face Larry Johnson in the next round.

This week’s matchup should be a bit more exciting, with Bernard King squaring off against Jeremy Lin. Still, I have a feeling I know which way this one’s going to go. Many fans see King as one of the greatest Knicks ever, and the fact that his number isn’t hanging in the rafters is nothing short of a crime. On the flip side, Jeremy Lin delivered arguably the most electrifying two-week stretch in franchise history, a run so iconic it’s been immortalized in documentaries and books ever since.

We skipped over the Bernard King / Malik Rose matchup in round one because, quite frankly, why waste the P&T readers' time, or website space?

For the sake of debate, Lin deserves his shot at taking down the King.

Bernard King — Bernard King brought his scoring flair to the Knicks in 1982 after bouncing around three teams in his first five NBA seasons. Drafted 7th overall by the New York Nets in 1977, King wasted no time making noise. He racked up a franchise record 1,909 points as a rookie, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. Although he didn’t snag Rookie of the Year honors, those went to Walter Davis and Marques Johnson, King’s impact was impossible to ignore.

Just before the 1982-83 season tipped off, the Golden State Warriors sent King to New York in exchange for Michael Ray Richardson. Once he slipped on a Knicks jersey, King lit up the Garden, averaging a scorching 26.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per game from 1982 to 1987. With Patrick Ewing yet to arrive, King became the undisputed face of the franchise, and he earned back-to-back All-Star nods in 1984 and 1985 to prove it.

Photo by NBA Photos/NBAE via Getty Images

In early 1984, Bernard King etched his name into the NBA record books by becoming the first player since Rick Barry in 1967 to score 50 or more points in back-to-back games. By then, King had already earned a reputation across the league as a scoring machine, but on Christmas Day 1984, he redefined what that really meant. That afternoon, King exploded for 60 points against none other than the New Jersey Nets, setting a new single-game scoring record for the Knicks and becoming just the 10th player in NBA history to drop 60 or more in a game.

Despite his offensive brilliance, King’s 32.9 points per game weren’t enough to lift a struggling Knicks squad that stumbled to a 24,58 finish in the 1984,85 season. Still, that forgettable record ended up being a blessing in disguise.

That summer, the ping pong gods smiled on New York, awarding the Knicks the top pick in the very first NBA draft lottery. Their prize? Georgetown phenom Patrick Ewing. But just as Knicks fans began dreaming of a fearsome King-Ewing pairing, fate intervened. At the tail end of the 1984,85 season, King suffered a devastating leg injury that required major reconstructive surgery to repair a torn ACL, damaged cartilage, and a broken leg bone. The injury not only sidelined King, but it also robbed fans of what could’ve been one of the most electrifying duos in Knicks history.

Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images

King’s injury sidelined him for the entire 1985-86 season and nearly all of 1986-87. He did make a brief return for the final six games of that 1987 campaign, and while his natural scoring touch hadn’t completely vanished, his athleticism was a shadow of what it once was. After the season wrapped, the Knicks made the tough decision to release him.

Still, Bernard King will forever hold a place among the greatest to ever wear a Knicks jersey and among the most gifted scorers in NBA history. In 2013, he received basketball’s ultimate honor with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. But the question will always linger in the minds of Knicks fans of what if?

What if King never got hurt? What if he and Ewing had become one of the most dominant duos the league had ever seen? It’s a scenario that feels entirely possible, but one that will always remain in the realm of imagination, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.

Jeremy Lin — What Jeremy Lin did for the Knicks in 2012 ranks as one of the most exciting times in franchise history.

Over the span of nine games, during which Jeremy Lin guided the Knicks to eight wins, seven of them consecutive, his extraordinary journey unfolded from an unexpected spot start, creating one of the most captivating stories in NBA history. Years later the phenomenon is still alive, which was most recently documented by HBO. For each one of those 12 games in which “Linsanity” occurred, a debate could be had over which one served as the most memorable.

Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images

Was it his electrifying 38-point performance against Kobe Bryant and the Lakers, punctuated by the irony of Kobe telling reporters before the game that he had no idea who Jeremy Lin was?

Or was it the ice-cold game-winner in Toronto, where a sold-out crowd of 20,000 stood frozen as the score remained tied at 87 with just 17 seconds left? Lin stood calmly at midcourt, eyes locked on the rim as the entire basketball world held its breath. He waved off the screen, took the moment for himself, and let the clock tick down. At five seconds, he made his move, four quick dribbles to the top of the key, then rose up for a three. The shot was pure, the follow-through perfect. And as that ball soared through the air, you got the feeling, not just Knicks fans, but Raptors fans too, everyone knew it was going in.

Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images

That moment didn’t just win the game. It etched Lin into the record books, making him the first player in NBA history to score at least 20 points and dish out seven assists in each of his first five career starts.

Although all great things must come to an end, Jeremy Lin’s historic run didn’t just captivate fans; it saved the Knicks’ season and helped launch them into the NBA Playoffs. The New York Times even called Lin the most popular Knicks player in a decade, and that was while he shared the court with stars like Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...eally-wore-it-best-bernard-king-vs-jeremy-lin

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks' Mohamed Diawara makes key decision on NBA future

Photo by Candice Ward/NBAE via Getty Images

The Knicks drafted French prospect Mohamed Diawara with the No. 51 pick in the 2025 NBA draft.

Mohamed Diawara is staying in New York City.

The 20-year-old French forward, drafted by the New York Knicks with the 51st overall pick in June after completing a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers, has decided to begin his NBA career rather than returning to France, effectively avoiding becoming the latest draft-and-stash player.

His former team in France, Cholet Basket, made the announcement on Friday on X.

Arrivé en provenance de Paris à l’été 2024 et récemment médaillé d’or à l’Euro U20 avec l’Équipe de France, Mohamed Diawara avait un objectif clair : rejoindre la NBA.

C’est désormais chose faite : Mo a été sélectionné en 51ème position de la Draft NBA 2025 par les New York… pic.twitter.com/5oujazASBG

— Cholet Basket (@CB_officiel) July 25, 2025​

“Arrived from Paris in the summer of 2024 and recently a gold medalist at the U20 Euro with the French National Team, Mohamed Diawara had a clear goal: to join the NBA.

“It’s now a done deal: Mo was selected as the 51st pick in the 2025 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks and has decided to continue his journey in the United States!

“Throughout the season, Mo brought his energy and defensive impact to the team, both in Betclic Elite and the FIBA Europe Cup.

“Cholet Basket would like to warmly thank him for his dedication, motivation, and professionalism.

“Good luck in this new chapter @mo_dwra.

“We wish you the very best moving forward!” — Cholet Basket

Cholet’s announcement basically means that Diawara won’t be stashed overseas — a common route for second-round international picks — and instead will compete for a spot in New York. His performance in the Summer League must have convinced the Knicks brass, who should have seen enough to offer the Frenchman a two-way contract for next year.

Diawara averaged 5.8 points and 3.1 rebounds last season with Cholet in the French LNB Elite, as well as 7.0 points, 3.7 boards, and 1.6 dimes per game during the 2024 U20 Eurobasket tournament with the French national team.

Diawara spent the past month with the Summer Knicks in Sin City, where he showed flashes of his athleticism and defensive versatility, as well as making it clear he’s still a raw talent pending molding his game.

In four games in Las Vegas, Diawara averaged 7.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in 22.3 minutes per game.

Most players drafted in Diawara’s range end up on two-way contracts, and that remains the most likely option for the young stud, particularly since the Knicks currently have no two-way players under contract.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...amed-diawara-makes-key-decision-on-nba-future

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks keep making coaching moves ahead of 2025-26 NBA season

Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images

New York already hired Mike Brown as the new head coach of the Knicks.

The New York Knicks keep undergoing significant coaching staff changes under newly hired head coach Mike Brown.

Following the firing of Tom Thibodeau after the Knicks’ loss to the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, the organization has cleared out much of the previous staff, as per Brown’s calls.

Former Knicks assistant coaches Othella Harrington, Daniel Brady, Dice Yoshimoto, and Andy Greer have all been let go, along with assistant video coordinator and Thibs’ nephew Nick Thibodeau.

The New York Knicks won’t retain assistant coaches Othella Harrington, Daniel Brady, Dice Yoshimoto, and assistant video coordinator Nick Thibodeau, nephew of Tom Thibodeau, league sources told @hoopshype. According to @SbondyNBA, Andy Greer is also not returning next season.

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) July 25, 2025​

Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reported that Brown is also bringing in two of his former Sacramento Kings assistants to join him in New York: Charles Allen and Riccardo Fois.

“The New York Knicks won’t retain assistant coaches Othella Harrington, Daniel Brady, Dice Yoshimoto, and assistant video coordinator Nick Thibodeau, nephew of Tom Thibodeau, league sources told @hoopshype. According to @SbondyNBA, Andy Greer is also not returning next season.” — Michael Scotto

Allen joined the Kings in 2022 as a video coordinator. Fois was previously with the Phoenix Suns as a player development coach before spending the 2024–25 season in Sacramento.

Brown is also retaining two members of the Thibodeau era in Maurice Cheeks—who joined the Knicks in 2024—and Rick Brunson—father of Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson. The elder Brunson, however, will stay in New York in a reduced role instead of having assistant coach duties, as he did during Thibs' stint at the helm of the Knicks.

Brown and the Knicks will enter the 2025–26 season with higher expectations than they have carried into a new campaign for the past quarter-century.

The former Kings coach, however, comes with vast experience in high-stakes situations, whether that's as the head or assistant coach of a few of his former teams. Brown led the LBJ Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA Finals in 2007 and later won four championships as an assistant with the dynastic Golden State Warriors.

Most recently, during his tenure in Sacramento, Brown ended the franchise’s 16-year playoff drought in 2023, winning 48 games after racking up 46 wins a year later, months before he got canned in the middle of the 2024-25 season with the Knigs boasting a putrid 3-11 record around the flipping of the calendar page to 2025 in late December.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...coaching-staff-moves-ahead-of-2025-nba-season

 

[New York Knicks]

Jalen Brunson joins Bronx students in the kitchen and donates $300K to culinary program

Photo by David L. Nemec /NBAE via Getty Images

From second-round pick to first-class role model.

Jalen Brunson spent Tuesday afternoon not at the practice facility or MSG, but in the kitchen at DREAM Charter High School in the Bronx. The Knicks point guard cooked alongside students, shared life lessons, and announced a major donation to support their culinary education.

The visit was part of Brunson’s ongoing work with his nonprofit, the Second Round Foundation. Named in honor of his selection in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft, the organization focuses on empowering youth who may have been overlooked.

“It kind of reflects the notion of being overlooked,” said the Brunson Burner. “For us, it’s all about empowering the youth—through school, through sports.”

DREAM officials say last season’s Clutch Player of the Year has taken that mission seriously. His foundation pledged more than $300,000 to support the school’s Scratch Food Kitchen program, which not only provides healthy, from-scratch meals to students year-round, but also creates educational opportunities like internships and a culinary club.

“I’m working on getting my food handler’s license,” one student said. “Being part of the club helped me realize this is what I want to do.”

According to DREAM, 89% of their students qualify for free or reduced lunch. That means the meals they receive at school are often their most consistent source of nutrition. Brunson’s support will help ensure that the food is not only nutritious, but also tied to student-led learning and professional growth.

“Not having to worry about food or your next meal is a luxury everyone needs,” Brunson said. “For me, I just do the best I can to help.”

From the court to the kitchen, Brunson continues to show up for New York.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...-kitchen-and-donates-300k-to-culinary-program

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks' OG Anunoby signs multi-year deal with Skechers

Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

It's time for some jogging!

Fans have learned quickly that OG Anunoby is a man like no other.

On the court, OG possesses a unique ability to guard all five positions at an elite level, while being a reliable shooter, even if it comes with some cold stretches. There are maybe five guys in the league who can do what he does on both sides of the ball. Off the court, OG is just as unique, balancing what seems to be a quiet and calm introvertedness with a distinct style of humor, and one of the more relaxed and low-maintenance fashion senses in the league. His tendency to walk paths that are often unpaved or, at the very least, not often walked on continued last week when he joined the up-and-coming, but still very unorthodox, Skechers basketball roster.

OG Anunoby has signed an endorsement deal with Skechers

“Skechers has helped me continue to play basketball at an elite level and I love these shoes.” pic.twitter.com/8ubBJY3GpH

— Nice Kicks (@nicekicks) July 24, 2025​

The footwear brand announced Anunoby’s multi-year footwear and apparel deal last week, saying, “Confirming the fan speculation surrounding his headline-grabbing slam dunk in SKX REIGN™ shoes during the 2025 NBA playoffs in May, Skechers officially announces that New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby has joined Team Skechers. In addition to competing in Skechers Basketball footwear, the NBA Champion and defensive powerhouse will appear in the brand’s global marketing campaigns.”

“Skechers has helped me continue to play basketball at an elite level, and I love these shoes,” Anunoby said. “I play quick and low to the court. I jump and move a lot. Skechers has the shoe to keep me comfortable, keep me protected, and keep me playing my best every day.”

Anunoby, who has worn Nike his entire career up until this point, joins Knicks nemesis Joel Embiid, as well as Terance Mann, Josh Green, and former Knicks forward Julius Randle as part of Skechers’ NBA roster.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...g-anunoby-signs-multi-year-deal-with-skechers

 

[New York Knicks]

What is Mitchell Robinson’s future with the Knicks?

Will the tenured big man get extended, traded, or hit the open market next offseason?

We are deep into the dog days of the NBA offseason. While the Knicks still have two open roster spots and room to add a veteran, they may choose to do so closer to training camp. That doesn’t begin for almost two months. The schedule doesn’t even come out until mid-August. What is there to talk about?

While the questions surrounding a potential Mikal Bridges extension are probably the No. 1 issue in Knickerbocker-land, the future of Mitchell Robinson might be just as important.

Robinson, of course, represents a lot more than the Knicks’ backup center.

With his play alone, he’s more than you’re average bench player. He’s been one of the best players on the court in almost every playoff series he has played in, and he’s been a reliable defensive anchor and maniac on the boards. He’s the type of player that other teams gameplan for, something very rare for someone with very little scoring acumen.

MITCHELL ROBINSON = BEAST ON THE BOARDS

He has 5 offensive rebounds already on TNT! pic.twitter.com/jFLZnhdtyf

— NBA (@NBA) June 1, 2025​

But beyond his play, he represents something more. Mitchell Robinson is, by far, the longest tenured New York Knick.

While only 27 years old, Robinson has been in the orange and blue since he was drafted in June 2018. If he begins 2025-26 on the Knicks roster, it’ll be his eighth season with the Knicks. He’s the longest tenured Knick since Allan Houston spent nine years in New York from 1996-2005. While at first, his tenure was just a nifty fact, he’s slowly becoming one of the longest tenured players in all of basketball with their current team.

The only other players who have been with their current team since the start of the 2018-19 season?

Trae Young (ATL), Jayson Tatum (BOS), Jaylen Brown (BOS), Bam Adebayo (MIA), Giannis Antetokounmpo (MIL), Joel Embiid (PHI), Dwight Powell (DAL), Jamal Murray (DEN), Nikola Jokic (DEN), Stephen Curry (GSW), Draymond Green (GSW), LeBron James (LAL), Devin Booker (PHX)

Of that list, only one player (Powell) isn’t a face of the franchise or close to it. Powell and Robinson are the only role players entering their eighth consecutive season with a team. For the Knicks, if Robinson were to depart, their longest tenured player would now be Deuce McBride, who was drafted in 2021 and is entering his fifth NBA season. This is a really new roster.

Despite his importance to the Knicks every time they find themselves in the postseason, Robinson’s future with the only club he’s known is uncertain. In the 2022 offseason, the big man inked a four-year, $60 million contract, re-signing with the Knicks while they grabbed Isaiah Hartenstein and Jalen Brunson in free agency. He’s entering that deal's fourth and final year in 2025-26.

Now, nothing is stopping the Knicks from re-signing Robinson this offseason. He’s eligible to extend for up to four years and $89 million, something that shouldn’t be a problem despite some of the prices of centers that Robinson could argue he’s more impactful than (see: Jakob Poeltl).

The issue is that the NBA’s current CBA does not allow you to keep all of your talent for long periods of time. Barring something unforeseen, the Knicks will likely be forced into being a second apron team for 2026-27, whether via re-signing Bridges or trading him for someone under contract. While there are ways they can figure out how to duck underneath the apron again that year, none of those ways would allow Robinson to remain on the roster. Further, the deeper they go into the apron, the more luxury tax penalties they’ll accrue, which will begin to really sting the pockets of Mr. Dolan as the Knicks enter the repeater tax that season.

So, for Robinson, what’s the path ahead? The Knicks would be losing him for nothing if they don’t trade or re-sign him, but they would still not have financial flexibility if Robinson were traded now or midseason for someone of a similar salary. If they traded him for draft picks, what does that do besides give you a slightly better shot at the next blockbuster trade?

A bigger question might be Robinson’s market value, both in the trade market and the open market. The elephant in the room is that the Louisiana native just cannot stay healthy for a myriad of reasons. Lower body injuries have derailed multiple seasons of his career, and despite how important he is every postseason, he’s barely contributing in the regular season. Is a guy who struggles to play half the regular season worth eight figures a year?

I’d think his skillset is worth that, and maybe in another life, his next deal is loaded with injury incentives. However, the CBA making unlikely incentives count against teams’ apron status has effectively killed them in future contracts. What a potential Robinson extension might look like could be similar to the Zion Williamson extension in terms of injury protections. The Knicks could only guarantee the front end of the contract and have an out in case of one too many injuries, causing a severe decline in Robinson’s play.

Whatever way Leon Rose and company are leaning, they have a massive decision to make regarding the longest tenured Knick’s future in New York. He’ll likely be on the roster come Opening Night; the question is how much longer?

Knicks fans - here's an incredible Mitchell Robinson moment you probably forgot about!

pic.twitter.com/R9SfwRcfbV

— EverythingKnicks (@EverythinKnicks) July 15, 2025​

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...robinson-knicks-future-nba-contract-extension

 

[New York Knicks]

Updates on Pablo Prigioni and the Knicks continued efforts to fill out Mike Brown’s staff

Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images

The assistant coach search is proving to be just as slow, and filled with no’s as the head coach search was

Last week, Knicks fans were elated to hear that New York was granted permission to speak with former Knick Pablo Prigioni to join Mike Brown’s staff. Prigioni, who became the oldest rookie in league history when he joined the Knicks in 2012, was a fan favorite largely due to his selfless play and effort. And his addition to Brown’s staff would’ve been a homerun hire given both his popularity and proven ability to put together an organized offense focused on spacing, shooting, and ball movement-something that the Knicks, and Brown, look to capitalize on. Prigioni has declined the opportunity, though, citing family reasons.

Amid interest from Knicks, MIN assistant Pablo Prigioni decided to stay with T Wolves, citing family reasons, league sources tell SNY. One coach squarely on NYK radar for an assistant job under Mike Brown? Clippers assistant coach Brendan O’Connor, league sources tell SNY.…

— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) July 26, 2025​

So, where will the Knicks’ search take them next? New York will now reportedly turn their focus to another former Knick. Clippers assistant coach Brendan O’Connor, who has worked under both Ty Lue and Doc Rivers in Los Angeles, and also coached in New York under Larry Brown in the 05-06 season, seems to be the Knicks’ next target. O’Connor is a defensive expert and would bring some much-needed wisdom on that side of the ball.

Regardless of what happens with O’Connor, though, it has been rumored that the Knicks will continue to look for more help on the offensive side. How many more assistant coaches, and who they’ll be, remains in question. Still, it’s becoming apparent that between the hiring of Brown and the assistants they’ve targeted, New York believes Tom Thibodeau didn’t optimize the offense, and wants to make that more of a priority heading into next season.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...ntinued-efforts-to-fill-out-mike-browns-staff

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks sign Mikal Bridges to four-year $150 million extention

Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images

Around a year ago, Knicks fans spent a good portion of the offseason trying to decide how they felt about their all-in move to trade for former Villanova standout Mikal Bridges. On one hand, fans were excited about the prospect of pairing OG Anunoby with another wing that was just a couple of years removed from being one of the best two-way three-and-D players in the league. On the other hand, though, fans were surprised, dare I even say scared, about the potential blowback of trading five first-round picks for someone of Bridges’ caliber.

What ensued was one of the most confusing, frustrating, and inconsistent seasons from a player we’ve seen in a long time. There were nights when Bridges looked like the perimeter defender, and the third option the Knicks needed to get them over the hump. But there were also many a night when Bridges looked out of whack, uncomfortable, or just downright bad.

The narratives surrounding Bridges quickly soured. Instead of talking about the 17.6PPG he was averaging, his near-automatic efficiency from mid-range, or the new Villanova trio he formed with college teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, fans around the league focused on the negatives. They made note of his inconsistent defense, reluctance to get to the free throw line, the change to his shooting form that led to subpar results, and last but not least, the package of picks that the Knicks gave up to get him.

Now, Bridges was able to rewrite some of those narratives in the playoffs when he started the Knicks’ second-round series against the Celtics with a pair of game-winning defensive plays. But much like the regular season, his postseason performance was a mixed bag- one filled with mediocre performances that left fans searching for the silver lining.

So when the season ended, there was plenty to talk about with Bridges’ future with the Knicks. Would they dare trade one of Brunson’s best friends? Or would New York extend him? And if they did, would he take a pay cut knowing that the Knicks held little to no leverage?

BREAKING: New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges has agreed to a four-year, $150 million contract extension with the franchise, agents Sam Goldfeder and Jordan Gertler of Excel Sports Management tell ESPN. The new deal includes a player option for 2029-30 and a trade kicker. pic.twitter.com/xuiYvzykqJ

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 31, 2025​

Well, those questions, after weeks of speculation that he may be involved in a trade for a certain Greek superstar in Milwaukee, were finally answered. On Thursday night, Shams Charania of ESPN reported that Bridges had agreed to a four-year $150 million contract extension, which includes a player option for the 2029-30 season, and a trade kicker. That brings Bridges’ average annual value to around $37.5 million per year, making him the fourth-highest paid player on the team starting in the 2026-27 season.

Keep in mind, Bridges could have waited for next summer and been eligible for as much as 5 years, $300 million.

— Alan Hahn (@alanhahn) July 31, 2025​

While that is quite a lot of money for a player that left a lot to be desired for the overwhelming majority of the season, it is also important to note that Bridges was eligible to sign a four-year $156 million contract, and had he waited until next summer, he would’ve been eligible to sign for up to $300 million over five years.

Next 3 years: New York Knicks

Most important line is the 2nd apron

The Jalen Brunson extension last year and now Mikal Bridges, has given New York flexibility to operate under both aprons. pic.twitter.com/4IfbFoPo13

— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) July 31, 2025​

The six million dollars he gave up doesn’t seem like a big deal, but it, along with Brunson’s extension last summer, helps the Knicks operate under both aprons moving forward, giving them more flexibility to continue building out what will hopefully be a championship roster.

There it is. Knicks have Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, Pacome Dadiet, and Tyler Kolek under contract through the 2027-28 season.

Karl-Anthony Towns has a $61 million player option that year. https://t.co/aTkE6SlTJS

— Kris Pursiainen (@krispursiainen) July 31, 2025​

With the move now looking official, the Knicks have Brunson, Bridges, Anunoby, Hart, Pacome Dadiet, and Tyler Kolek all signed through the 2027-28 season with Karl-Anthony Towns holding a $61 million player option that year as well.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...al-bridges-to-four-year-150-million-extention

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks’ updated cap situation following Mikal Bridges extension

Photo by Brian Choi/NBAE via Getty Images

Is the second apron still inevitable?

Deep in the lull of the NBA offseason, the Knicks decided to make headlines around the same time of the MLB trade deadline’s yearly chaos on Thursday, officially inking Mikal Bridges to a four-year, $150 million extension, a move once seen as inevitable when he was acquired last June that became heavily debated after it took management nearly four weeks past Bridges’ initial extension eligibility to pull the trigger.

Apparently, there were rumors that the Knicks were awaiting to learn the fate of Bucks’ superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo before making any rash decisions about Bridges. With Antetokounmpo increasingly likely to at least give Milwaukee one more chance, Leon Rose got it done. Notably, Bridges took $6 million less than the maximum extension he could’ve received. A small gesture that criminally underpaid bench guard Deuce McBride joked about following the news:

Manns really a team first guy, appreciate it Kal! https://t.co/L6L3gSs2cn

— M11es McBride (@deucemcb11) July 31, 2025​

The deal includes a player option in the fourth year and a 15% trade kicker. It begins in 2026-27 and Bridges cannot be traded for six months after the deal is made official. That’s notable, as the 2025-26 trade deadline will likely fall around February 6. If you remember, Josh Hart specifically timed his extension following the 2022-23 season for August 8, ensuring he could not be dealt at that year’s deadline. Barring the team stalling for a week, Bridges would still be able to be traded at the deadline.

On the New York Knicks locking in Mikal Bridges for $150M and what it means moving forward for NBA Today: pic.twitter.com/sPwY8uL31n

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 1, 2025​

Bridges, like Brunson, could’ve elected to wait a year and make more the following season. While there was no chance he could challenge a surefire max contract like Brunson would’ve. Bridges could’ve demanded close to $200 million and looked at OG Anunoby’s extension as a baseline. Instead, he did what was rumored to be happening last summer and took less, even if the $6 million he left on the table right now is insignificant.

The question we’re all asking after this: what does this mean for the second apron?

Bridges’ Year 1 salary will clock in at just under $33.5 million (assuming the deal is naturally backloaded), making him the fourth-highest paid player on the team. It removes a major question mark for the 2026-27 season, but also moves the team closer to an uncomfortable position. The second apron is estimated to be just $222.4 million that year, over $6 million less than previously projected due to an unexpected decrease in the salary cap increase from the 10% maximum to just 7%.

Next 3 years: New York Knicks

Most important line is the 2nd apron

The Jalen Brunson extension last year and now Mikal Bridges, has given New York flexibility to operate under both aprons. pic.twitter.com/4IfbFoPo13

— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) July 31, 2025​

So, as of today, the Knicks would have eight guaranteed players under contract and $18.6 million under the second apron. Guerschon Yabusele has a $5.8 million player option and the team will have Jordan Clarkson and Mitchell Robinson hit unrestricted free agency, while they’ll probably have to sort something out for Ariel Hukporti.

Unfortunately, it would take a monumental effort (and one that would make the roster leaps and bounds worse) to stay below the second apron in 2026-27. For it to work, they’d have to likely let Robinson, Yabusele, and Clarkson walk for a bunch of veteran minimums, something that will make the team a decent amount worse. Considering the organization probably wants more than one crack at this, expect them to still operate in the second apron in 2026-27.

But, what about 2027-28? In that season, they open up flexibility, but also big questions. Karl-Anthony Towns will have a $61 million player option, while the team will have a $22.4 million club option on Josh Hart. They’ll also have to deal with no longer having McBride on his ridiculously cheap extension. The way this is positioned, the 2027 offseason will likely be an inflection point and their biggest opportunity to pivot, barring a blockbuster trade becoming available next offseason.

All in all, the minor paycut will only make James Dolan pay a bit less in the luxury tax once the team becomes a repeat offender. The extension itself was a necessary move that keeps you somewhat flexible instead of staring down the barrel of a franchise-altering 2026 offseason.

Now, about Big Mitch...

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...tion-mikal-bridges-extension-nba-second-apron

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks enter 2025-26 as East contender, with caveats

Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images

NBA.com describes them as contenders with asterisks.

In John Schuhmann’s Eastern Conference offseason power rankings, the New York Knicks sit at #2, trailing only the Cleveland Cavaliers. It’s a vote of confidence in the team’s consistency, depth, and the vision of Leon Rose & Co. Nonetheless, key questions remain about fit, flow, and whether this group can finally reach the NBA Finals and championship glory.

The Knicks return a starting lineup that logged a league-high 940 minutes together. That continuity matters. But Schuhmann notes a worrying postseason regression: that same unit was outscored by 6.2 points per 100 possessions in the playoffs, raising flags about scalability. Adding 11-year-vet Jordan Clarkson may help with secondary creation, but the Knicks still lag in movement, where they’ve ranked in the bottom seven for five straight years.

That could change under new head coach Mike Brown, whose Kings squads led the league in ball movement and offensive efficiency in 2022–23. Schuhmann notes that the Knicks’ offense showed flashes of a more dynamic identity during Jalen Brunson’s 15-game, injury-related absence late last season. The challenge will be blending that style with Brunson, who’s led the NBA in time of possession two years running.

On the defensive end, New York still needs help. The team ranked 13th in Defensive Rating last season and will lean on Brown to coax more out of Karl-Anthony Towns. While an offensive savant, his pick-and-roll coverage has been notoriously Charmin soft. The supporting starters Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby bring defensive grit, but the Knicks need buy-in across the board—especially if Precious Achiuwa, still unsigned, doesn’t return.

Schuhmann ranks the Cavs #1 in the East, highlighting their elite offense, which was tops in the NBA last season at 121 points per 100 possessions, and their strong overall depth. He praises their shooting (nine players hit league-average or better from three) and major improvements in player and ball movement. However, he cites their defense as a concern, especially after Indiana whupped them in the second round of the playoffs. With Lonzo Ball and Larry Nance Jr. added, Cleveland remains a conference favorite and one of the Knicks’ biggest challengers this upcoming season.

Stability counts, though. Unlike other East hopefuls, the Knicks avoided major departures. With Boston reeling from injuries, Milwaukee shifting post-Dame, and Philly a weird wild card, the door appears to be open for our heroes. If Brown can unlock better ball movement without disrupting Brunson’s rhythm (and get Towns to hold his own on defense), this team has a real shot to be the last one standing.

Read the full piece, and all of Schuhmann’s rankings, here.

Go Knicks.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...-enter-2025-26-as-east-contender-with-caveats

 

[New York Knicks]

Welcome to the new Posting and Toasting: A fresh look, fewer ads and a new feature

Things will look a little different around here today.

A few weeks ago we told you something new was coming to Posting and Toasting and today it’s here. Things are cleaner, faster and easier to use. There are the same writers, coverage, comments, and community you’ve come to rely on, now with less clutter and clunkiness.

Let’s dive in. If you scroll down the page on your phone or computer, it’s smoother. You’ll notice that the most talked-about stories have a bigger font displaying the number of comments. You’ll also see a section called Active Conversations to point you to the busiest conversations right now.

But there’s two changes we’re most excited to tell you about:

Fewer ads for logged-in users​

Our loyal readers and commenters are the heartbeat of our communities, and with this new design we’re excited to offer them fewer ads when they’re logged in. Specifically:

• Video players will no longer chase you down the page. Just scroll past one and it will be gone.
• Full page pop-ups that would sometimes interrupt your commenting experience have been disabled.

You can log in or sign up here and check it out.

A new feature by the community, for the community: The Feed​

Today we’re launching a brand new space for you to come together. The Feed is a running stream of posts and updates from you, the community, mixed in with links and updates from the team and our staff. Think of it as our community’s group text where you can easily grab your phone and share a link to a story, post a question or write your own post on the day’s news.

You can find it in two places:

• On the homepage, adjacent to the top stories. Community participation is core to who we are, so we want it right on the front page to share your stuff.
• A devoted homepage for The Feed where you can see the full stream of posts coming in from the community. You might want to bookmark that.

Log in or sign up here and you can start posting on The Feed and seeing fewer ads immediately.

Today’s launch is a big deal for our community, and it’s also a kickoff of broader efforts to build around the community we have here. Soon you’ll get alerts when someone replies to your comment or your post on The Feed, with more to come thereafter. We want to put the community in the driver’s seat, so let us know what you want in the comments below or in The Feed.

If you want to dig into more of this updated experience, head over to this post on sbnation.com from SB Nation’s Head of Product Ed Clinton, where he expands on the changes in our ads and design. Ed will be responding to questions in the comments. If you have any questions about how to log in to our new system, check out this article from last week.

Go Knicks.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...ting-a-fresh-look-fewer-ads-and-a-new-feature

 

[New York Knicks]

French Connection: The Knicks’ Pipeline to France

The New York Knicks’ front office has show international inclinations in recent years, and the path runs straight through France.

After selecting Pacôme Dadiet with the 25th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, the Knicks doubled down in 2025 by acquiring the rights to Mohamed Diawara, taken 51st overall by the Clippers. Add in the recent signing of Guerschon Yabusele (now captaining the French national team ahead of EuroBasket 2025) and a clear pattern emerges: New York is building a bona fide French connection. (R.I.P. Gene Hackman.)

France is quickly becoming a global force in the basketball world. A record six French players were selected in the 2025 draft, including potential stars like Nolan Traore and Joan Beringer. But the Knicks aren’t just following a trend. Their scouting strategy seems to focus on versatile, athletic forwards with high ceilings and time to develop.

Dadiet, a lanky wing with two-way upside, embodies the Knicks’ draft-and-stash philosophy. Still developing overseas, he’s honing his shot-making and defensive versatility. Diawara, who has roots in Mali and played for Cholet Basket, brings toughness, switchability, and a growing perimeter game, which are all traits that align with a long-term vision.

Yabusele, meanwhile, proved his NBA worth last season with the Philadelphia 76ers. He appeared in 70 games (43 starts), averaging 11.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 50% from the field and 38% from three. He stepped in at both forward and backup center, stood out as a floor-spacer, and turned heads with a 28-point performance against Denver in January. Now a leader for Team France, Yabusele adds depth to the Knicks while symbolizing the success of the very system they’ve tapped into.

He also provides a blueprint for players like Dadiet and Diawara, modeling what it takes to transition from the French leagues to elite international play.

Tapping into France’s rising basketball profile helps New York uncover under-the-radar talent while expanding its global reach. Players like Dadiet and Diawara could be the foundation of an international development pipeline that offers long-term flexibility and potential rotation value.

With EuroBasket 2025 on the horizon, we’ll certainly be keeping a keen eye on Yabu and Team France.

Go Knicks.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/knicks-news/54963/french-connection-the-knicks-pipeline-to-france

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks Bulletin: ‘A guy who can shoot’

The New York Knicks aren’t quite back.

Posting & Toasting surely is, in case you hadn’t noticed.

Fresh coat of paint, same old top-notch content.

Jalen Brunson’s clutchness overshadowed KAT’s New York Knick playoff moment

“The game before I was hitting those shots, he comes back and he makes his game-winner look way better than mine.” pic.twitter.com/cba4smvwWE

— 7PM in Brooklyn (@7PMinBrooklyn) August 6, 2025

Karl-Anthony Towns​

On building team chemistry to chase a championship:

“We have a chance to win a championship and that’s only going to happen if everyone’s connected.”

On tuning out distractions and staying united:

“[When] you have locker rooms that are that connected, you can’t be bothered by any of the outside noise and stuff, that’s when you have a championship team. Because at the end of the day, people will talk. [But] as long as everyone in that locker room believes in each other and this goal we have, ain’t none of that sh*t matters on the outside.”

Is The Process complete in Philly?

“You can love something, but not be IN love” @RP3natural & @KendrickPerkins get real about Joel Embiid & the current state of the 76ers pic.twitter.com/RnbPr2yPy8

— Road Trippin’ (@RoadTrippinPod) August 6, 2025

Kendrick Perkins​

On concerns over Joel Embiid’s long-term health:

“It’s scary to me because when I’m looking at this situation with Joel Embiid, I’m saying, his prime is not like everyone else’s. His prime is not going to be like a Giannis or a Jokic, meaning the window. I’m looking at this, and the first thing that pops into my mind is Amar’e Stoudemire. Do you remember how Amar’e was up here like, ‘Oh s—, we’re looking at a guy who’s going to be that m————. Then all of a sudden, injuries took place. So, with these concerns coming out, I’m like, do we have a two-to-three-year window of Embiid at a high level?”

Andrea Bargnani​

On his happiness for the current Knicks team:

“I’m very happy for the Knicks because I played there and because Leon [Rose] is the guy there now. The team is very good. I think it’s about time that they unleash the potential of the team. Because for many years, if you take every player, seeing every player, the team has been very good for many years, but it was never able to perform at a high level and be a winning team. So now it is, and I am very happy for them.”

OG Anunoby confronted @Ronnie2K over his NBA2K rating pic.twitter.com/SmgjmQRv8e

— The Big Podcast (@bigpodwithshaq) August 6, 2025

Ronnie 2K​

On OG Anunoby confronting him over his 2K rating:

“Last night, after dinner at the Wynn, OG comes up to me and talks my ear off for a half an hour… he was going in on ‘I’m an 87. I should be at least a 92.’ I’m like wow, OK. But he had real thoughts, real feelings, real things to back up. His argument was that we skew offensively more than defensively. I actually don’t agree with that. I think we balance it really well.”

Tackled a few different topics in Part 1
of my Knicks mailbag:

— Giannis
—Mitch
— open roster spot
— Morehttps://t.co/pka1xRdBEC

— James L. Edwards III (@JLEdwardsIII) August 5, 2025

James Edwards III​

On the idea of the Knicks signing Ben Simmons:

“If you’re asking me what I think of the fit, I wouldn’t be a fan of the signing. Yes, he’d add some much-needed size to the backcourt. Yes, a defensive lineup of Simmons, Bridges and Anunoby would be intriguing for small portions of a game. However, I’m not a fan of having to have a tailor-made offense for a backup point guard. Simmons’ inability to shoot — or even look at the basket — makes it so that Brown couldn’t successfully play him with non-shooters like Josh Hart and Mitchell Robinson. Giving significant minutes to a guard or wing who isn’t willingly looking to score isn’t something I’d sign up for. New York needs to embrace its five-out spacing this season more than it did last year, and adding someone like Simmons to the rotation makes it trickier to do that.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by New York Post Sports (@nypostsports)

Rick Pitino​

On the current state of point guards in the NBA:

“There are no point guards anymore…Who’s the PG of the Knicks, Lakers, Celtics, Thunder?…PG’s totally done…”

On Jalen Brunson’s position if he’s not a point guard:

“A guy who can shoot. Combo scoring guard. I don’t think he’s looking for the assist. I think he’s looking to score. And thank God he is…”

Knicks .com home page summer 1999 pic.twitter.com/xdOn7Xcm7g

— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) August 3, 2025

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/knicks-news/54995/knicks-bulletin-xxx

 

[New York Knicks]

REPORT: Knicks to host Cavaliers on Christmas Day

The Christmas Knicks are back in style in 2025.

Coming off of a memorable trip to the Eastern Conference Finals and listed as a consensus co-favorite to represent the Eastern Conference in the NBA Finals next season, our very own Knicks will once again be part of the NBA’s festivities on Christmas Day, as Shams Charania reports that they will host the Cleveland Cavaliers in the World’s Most Famous Arena on December 25th.

NBA Christmas Day 2025 on ABC and ESPN, per sources:

– Cleveland Cavaliers at New York Knicks

– San Antonio Spurs at Oklahoma City Thunder

– Houston Rockets at LA Lakers

– Dallas Mavericks at Golden State Warriors

– Minnesota Timberwolves at Denver Nuggets

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 8, 2025

It’s the 58th time in Knicks’ history that they’ll play on Xmas, the most in NBA history. It’ll be the fifth year in a row the team is featured in the biggest regular season spectacle on the calendar, the longest such streak since 2009-14. It’s the 10th consecutive Christmas home game for the Knicks, with the last time they were on the road being 2012 in Los Angeles.

For the first time, they’ll face their likely biggest competition in the East next year, the Cavaliers, on Christmas Day in a rematch of the first round of the 2023 playoffs. The Cavs will be featured on Christmas for the first time since 2017, their last year with LeBron James. Cleveland, who won 64 games last season, will be a formidable test on national television, returning their core of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley, although losing key depth piece Ty Jerome.

The Knicks are 25-32 on Christmas Day, tied with the Lakers for the most wins (and alone in first with the most losses). The Cavs are 7-7.

Around the league, the other four games will all be Western Conference matchups, as Victor Wembanyama will look to follow up last year’s performance against the reigning champion Thunder, Kevin Durant and LeBron James (hopefully) square off, the new look Mavs featuring Cooper Flagg visit Jimmy Butler and Steph Curry, and we get a rematch of the 2024 WCF with Anthony Edwards and the Wolves facing Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets.

The NBA’s full schedule will be released later this month, with notable dates (including the season/home openers) likely being revealed ahead of the official release. However, we do know that the Knicks will not be on Opening Night and the return to NBC on October 21.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...ort-knicks-to-host-cavaliers-on-christmas-day

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks complete hiring of Mike Brown offensive assistant coach

The New York Knicks have, once and for all, and after an endless string of rejections, filled their long-vacant associate head coach position. ESPN’s Shams Charania first reported the news on Friday.

New York is set to hire Charlotte Hornets assistant and reigning Summer League champ (6-0) Chris Jent to serve as offensive coordinator under new head coach Mike Brown.

Charlotte Hornets assistant Chris Jent is finalizing a deal to become the associate head coach of the New York Knicks under Mike Brown, sources tell ESPN. New York and Tyler Glass of CSE Talent negotiated terms for Jent, who returns to Knicks where he spent 1996-97 as a player. pic.twitter.com/oaO1onPUpc

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 9, 2025

Charlotte Hornets assistant Chris Jent is finalizing a deal to become the associate head coach of the New York Knicks under Mike Brown, sources tell ESPN. New York and Tyler Glass of CSE Talent negotiated terms for Jent, who returns to Knicks where he spent 1996-97 as a player. — ESPN’s Shams Charania

The Knicks had been turned down by multiple targets, including Indiana Pacers assistant Mike Weinar, New Orleans Pelicans associate head coach James Borrego, Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Pablo Prigioni, and Dallas Mavericks assistant Jay Triano.

Jent, 55, arrives in New York with nearly two decades of experience on NBA sidelines. He most recently guided the Hornets to their first-ever championship—of any kind, a win’s a win!—winning the 2025 NBA Summer League title in Las Vegas last month.

His resume includes assistant coaching stops with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers, Sacramento Kings, and Hornets. Jent also had a brief stint as Orlando’s interim head coach in 2004–05 and has head coaching experience in the G League.

This will be a reunion for Jent and Brown, who previously worked together in Cleveland from 2006 to 2010. As an obscure nugget, Jent is a New Jersey native who played three games for the Knicks during the 1996–97 season, won an NBA championship as a player with the Houston Rockets in 1994—against the Knicks of all teams—and can call himself a career-wide 37-point scorer after appearing in an extraordinary six regular-season games, as well 11 postseason outings.

Alongside Jent, former Los Angeles Clippers assistant Brendan O’Connor will coordinate the other side of the game as the Knicks’ “defensive coordinator.”

In a final saucy-to-track development, Jent will take over from Jalen’s dad, Rick Brunson, who served as Tom Thibodeau’s associate head coach last season. Brunson, however, will remain on staff in a reduced role.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...iring-of-mike-brown-offensive-assistant-coach

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks reportedly bringing back an old look for their City Edition jerseys

The 2025 offseason has been one underlined by a serious tone. After bowing out of the playoffs in disappointing fashion and firing their head coach, the Knicks had multiple things they needed to address. The summer has been spent going through an extensive head coaching search to replace Tom Thibodeau, filling out the bench with more reliable veterans, and finally making a decision on Mikal Bridges and his extension. Lost among all of the pressing matters and urgent tasks, though, has been the reveal of the Knicks’ newest City Edition jerseys.

The Knicks are bringing back their classic 90s white “New York” jerseys featuring the blue side panels

The jersey was worn during their 1999 Finals run. pic.twitter.com/GlPBKf7ocZ

— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) August 8, 2025

New York, which has always been one of the franchises with the least amount of and least creative alternative jerseys, has announced that they are finally bringing back a fan favorite. For the upcoming 2025-26 campaign, the Knicks will be “reviving a modernized version” of the classic white jerseys with blue side panels and orange “New York” lettering.

The Knicks will be reviving a modernized version of the 1990’s uniforms for their City Edition next season.

The classic white “New York” with the blue side panels is coming back, which was worn during their run to the 1999 NBA Finals. pic.twitter.com/gtka9A3qk6

— Evan Sidery (@esidery) August 7, 2025

Not only is this a vintage look that fans have longed to see make its return, it is also the jersey the franchise wore during the last run to the NBA Finals, which took place in 1999. With the Knicks considered one of the top two favorites to make it out of the East and represent the conference in the finals, this seems like the perfect time for the organization to bring back the classic look.

While there have not been any official images of what the jersey could look like, there have already been a few images with what the jersey could potentially look like (see below).

The New York Knicks are bringing back their classic 90s white “New York” jerseys — featuring the original blue side panels

Exclusive first look at Jalen Brunson in the new City Edition Hardwood Classics Swingman uniform pic.twitter.com/omoDe2wGtI

— Playoff Sports (@PlayoffSports_) August 7, 2025

Based on the leaked shorts for next season for the Knicks’ Statement and City Edition Uniforms, Jersey concepts have been created carefully based on additional information.

How we feeling Knicks Fam??

Jersey Concept via: @ProLineMockups pic.twitter.com/lZAXooJtHw

— SleeperKnicks (@SleeperKnicks) June 6, 2025

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...ck-an-old-look-for-their-city-edition-jerseys

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks keep piling up on assistant coaches with new hire

The New York Knicks have made another addition to Mike Brown’s coaching staff, hiring former Birmingham Squadron head coach T.J. Saint for another assistant coach role under the new Knicks head coach.

SNY’s Ian Begley first reported the move on Monday, noting that Saint will aid New York on the offensive end, such as recently hired Chris Jent. Saint is regarded in NBA circles as a bright offensive mind.

Knicks are hiring T.J. Saint as an assistant coach on Mike Brown’s staff, league sources told SNY. Saint, head coach of the Pelicans G League team, will aid NYK on the offensive end. He’s viewed in NBA circles as a bright offensive mind; Squadron had G League’s top offense in…

— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) August 11, 2025

“Knicks are hiring T.J. Saint as an assistant coach on Mike Brown’s staff, league sources told SNY. Saint, head coach of the Pelicans G League team, will aid NYK on the offensive end. He’s viewed in NBA circles as a bright offensive mind; Squadron had G League’s top offense in 23-24 reg season. In addition to coaching with Pelicans, Saint has coached at the University of Georgia, with the Detroit Pistons, at Butler University and at Belmont University.” — SNY’s Ian Begley.

Saint, 35, led the New Orleans Pelicans’ G League affiliate to the league’s top-ranked offense during the 2023–24 season. He joined the organization in 2019–20, moving up to associate head coach in 2020 before taking over as head coach of the G Pels in 2022.

Saint’s time in Birmingham helped solidify his reputation for coming up with efficient, high-scoring systems and solutions at the pro level of hoops.

Before his G League success, Saint served as the University of Georgia’s director of basketball strategy in 2018–19 and spent four seasons as the Detroit Pistons’ video coordinator. He also had stints at Butler University and Belmont University before that.

The Knicks’ decision to bring in Saint follows last week’s hiring of Chris Jent as associate head coach and “offensive coordinator,” and Brendan O’Connor as “defensive coordinator.”

It’s fair to assume Saint will work closely with Jent, albeit in a lesser role, while shaping an offense that expected to top the levels reached under the guidance of Tom Thibodeau in what was the first year of the Jalen Brunson-Karl-Anthony Towns pairing in Manhattan.

Fellow assistants Rick Brunson and Maurice Cheeks, along with new player development hires Charles Allen and Riccardo Fois, round out the new Knicks’ staff.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...-piling-up-on-assistant-coaches-with-new-hire

 

[New York Knicks]

Knicks Media Roundup: A legend’s regret, a roster spot to fill, and obligatory Frank

From a legend looking back with regret, to talk about a veteran signing, and disappointment in France, it feels a little like nostalgia week around these parts. Here’s a roundup of stuff that crossed my in-box.

Patrick Ewing regrets leaving the Knicks​

In a recent interview, Knicks legend Patrick Ewing admitted that, looking back, he wishes he had finished his career in New York. Speaking with Basketball Network’s Adel Ahmad, Ewing said, “I probably should have ended my career in New York instead of going elsewhere.”

Big Pat spent 15 seasons as the face of the franchise before a 2000 trade to the Seattle SuperSonics. He had grown frustrated with constant whispers that the team was “better off without him.” Despite being past his prime, he remained a capable big man, but injuries and a shifting roster led the Knicks toward a rebuild.

The Knicks’ all-time points leader (23,665), Ewing asked to be traded after hearing doubts about his value for over a decade: “If your services is not required anymore, you go to greener pastures.”

He played one season in Seattle and one in Orlando before retiring in 2002, but said that his connection to New York, and the feeling that he should have ended his career there, never left him.

Read the full article on Basketball Network

Five names in play for the Knicks’ final veteran minimum spot​

The Knicks’ offseason is nearly complete with the coaching staff settled and Mikal Bridges extended. But as SNY’s David Vertsberger notes, one veteran’s minimum roster spot remains open. According to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, the Knicks are favorites to land Ben Simmons, the former first pick whose offensive aggressiveness and mobility have diminished due to injuries. His size and passing could still intrigue Mike Brown, even if his role would be limited to spot minutes.

Another option is Malcolm Brogdon, a seasoned but oft-injured guard who could serve as insurance behind Brunson, Clarkson, McBride, and Kolek. Brogdon brings steady shooting (39% career from three) and playmaking, though the Knicks may prefer to address another position.

Russell Westbrook is unlikely, given the depth chart and lack of reported interest. At center, Thomas Bryant (last seen in a Pacers jersey) could give New York a fourth true big behind Towns, Robinson, and Hukporti, especially if they start a double-big lineup. He may be headed overseas, though. Landry Shamet is another possibility, offering floor spacing and positional flexibility after shooting 39% from deep last season and coming up clutch in the Eastern Conference Finals. Delon Wright could still rejoin the team.

While none of the names mentioned are major needle-movers, the right fit could address depth or shooting needs heading into the season.

Read the full breakdown on SNY

Frank cut from the French team​

Preparing for 2025 FIBA EuroBasket, Team France has cut their roster to 14 players. Sadly, OAKAAKUYOAK Frank Ntilikina did not make the cut. Some of you will take the news harder than others. It’s cool. My wife still talks about Crystal Pepsi.

Merci Frank, Moussa et Ousmane

Le groupe France se réduit à 14 joueurs. Frank Ntilikina, Moussa Diabaté et Ousmane Dieng quittent les Bleus, qui continueront leur préparation mardi à Badalone après trois jours de break.#TeamFranceBasket | #PassionnémentBleu | #EuroBasket pic.twitter.com/OWj7WZUfMB

— Équipes de France de Basket (@FRABasketball) August 8, 2025

Go Knicks.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...et-a-roster-spot-to-fill-and-obligatory-frank

 

[New York Knicks]

After signing Bridges, Knicks keeping their options open

Brian Windhorst and his Hoop Collective crew recently broke down the Knicks’ biggest piece of summer business: Mikal Bridges’ four-year, $150 million extension. Bridges was already under contract for 2024-25 at $25 million. His new deal begins in 2026-27 at $33 million and will keep him in New York for the next five seasons at a slightly below-max number.

Windy noted the value of looking at contracts in terms of percentage of the salary cap. This year, Jalen Brunson and Bridges will combine for roughly 39% of the Knicks’ cap space. Once Bridges’ extension kicks in, that climbs to about 42%, which is still manageable, thanks largely to Brunson’s team-friendly deal.

Brunson signed a team-friendly four-year, $156.5 million contract extension with the Knicks on July 12, 2024. The deal, which begins in the 2025-26 season, includes a player option for the fourth year. By signing this extension, Brunson gave up $113 million; he could have potentially inked a five-year, $269 million maximum contract in 2025. The move provided the team with significant salary cap flexibility, helping them avoid the NBA’s punitive second-apron threshold and maintain roster-building options.

The Collective panel agreed that landing Bridges for less than the max is “decent business,” even if the weight of the five first-round picks the Knicks gave up for him will follow him. His contract should be tradable since he’s a historically durable two-way wing (who’s never missed a game!), though whether the commitment brings back positive value depends on his play this season.

The Knicks core of Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Brunson, Bridges, and Josh Hart will cost them $202.1M this upcoming season, according to Tim Bontemps. That leaves them less than $20M under the second apron. So, the looming question is whether this group is good enough to end the franchise’s half-century title drought.

Windhorst emphasized “optionality.” Staying under the second apron gives New York more trade flexibility if a superstar shakes loose. “The Knicks have the option of riding this core out or their pathway forward is to make a trade,” said Windhorst.

That may explain why Towns, who has three years and around $170 million left, hasn’t received an extension offer. “If the Knicks put Towns on a contract that’s five years and he’s owed approaching $300 million, I think it diminishes the Knicks optionality,” added Windhorst.

Towns had an outstanding 2024-25 season with the Knicks, averaging 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists on .526/.420/.829 shooting splits over 72 games. His ability to stretch the floor as a 7-foot center with elite shooting (42% from downtown) and dominate defenders inside makes him a rare offensive talent. He’s an ideal complement to Jalen Brunson and the Knicks’ core, and his third All-NBA Team selection and fifth All-Star nod underscore his value as a cornerstone player. The rising salary cap and potential to lock in a deal that ages well make it a strategic move to ensure stability and avoid free agency risks.

However, the Knicks brass must weigh this against the need for trade flexibility and the financial risk of a massive contract for an aging big man with defensive limitations. A balanced approach might be a shorter extension (let’s say, for two seasons) to bridge the gap, preserving some flexibility while securing Towns’ prime years.

Back to Mikal, the new deal gives New York the option to move Bridges by early next year. Under NBA rules, after signing a contract extension, a player cannot be traded for six months from the date of the extension, or until January 15 of the following season, whichever is later. Bridges signed his deal on July 31, 2025; hence, he cannot be traded until January 31, 2026.

Not that the Knicks want to move him, but they must like having the option.

After an Eastern Conference Finals run and with the conference wide open, the Collective gang sees the Knicks in Finals or Bust mode. Leon Rose & Co. seem pleased with their roster and expect new coach Mike Brown can squeeze more out of it. But they’re also keeping the life jacket on, staying ready to make a splashy move if the right opportunity comes along.

Go Knicks.

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...ing-bridges-knicks-keeping-their-options-open

 

[New York Knicks]

Who Really Wore It Best? Anthony Mason vs. Bill Cartwright

So we goofed a little bit, and we jumped the gun a bit on the Bernard King vs. Jeremy Lin matchup. That battle was meant for Round 3, thanks to the automatic advancement we gave King over Malik Rose. However, there are still a few second-round matchups to finish before the King-Lin duel should’ve taken place.

Nevertheless, the overall outcome remains unaffected, as King will ultimately go on to face the winner of the Tyson Chandler / David Lee matchup later on in Round 4, while we still round out Round 2 before heading to Round 3.

This week’s matchup features Anthony Mason vs. Bill Cartwright. Since Mase is my all-time favorite Knick, I’ll refrain from making any biased remarks (not that he needs the help, in my opinion). Nevertheless, back to Round 2. Apologies if you’ve gone cross-eyed as we tried to explain the proper round we are on.

Anthony Mason — “I got my haircut correct like Anthony Mason, then I ride the IRT right up to Penn Station”.– The Beastie Boys

Only the true fan favorites get their names dropped in the latest hip-hop tracks, just as Mase did by the Beastie Boys’ 1994 track “B-Boys Makin’ with the Freak Freak”.

Mase was the fan favorite of the entire city during the ’90s. Sure, everyone loved Patrick Ewing and John Starks, but if one of them was your number one, odds are Mase was your number two. His hard-nosed style of play perfectly matched the hard-nosed attitude of New York itself. Simply put, Mase was New York. Alongside Charles Oakley, the two became the Knicks’ hardcore “Bash Brothers” during the Riley era, enforcers who weren’t shy about putting opponents on the floor, and certainly not about earning a fine if they helped them back up.

Mase was an all-around gifted athlete standing at 6-foot-7, 255 pounds with the strength of a linebacker coupled with the quickness and ball-handling skills of a point guard. Mason defined the position of “Point Forward”, even going as far as self-proclaiming himself a “Point God” by way of one of his famous haircuts, which no one could, or would, dare to argue.

The ever-changing slogans etched into Mase’s head were Mase’s trademark. These distinctive designs often paid homage to the Knicks and often celebrated the city of New York.

Although Mason’s best statistical years came after his time with the Knicks, most NBA fans remember his greatest years of playing in the league during the ’90s Knicks era, one in which he won the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award in 1995.

Bill Cartwright — The Knicks selected Cartwright third overall in 1979, just two picks behind Magic Johnson. As a rookie, he earned his lone NBA All-Star appearance, made the All-Rookie First Team, and started all 82 games, averaging a career-high 21.7 points and 8.9 rebounds per game. He followed that up with another strong season, posting 20.1 points and 7.5 rebounds while once again playing every game.

At 7’1”, 245 pounds, Cartwright was emerging into one of the league’s elite centers foot injuries derailed his rise, costing him the entire 1984–85 season. Following that year, the Knicks drafted Patrick Ewing. As Ewing developed into the face of the franchise, Cartwright’s playing time and stock diminished year over year before he was ultimately traded to the Chicago Bulls for Charles Oakley and two draft picks.

Don’t just vote, we would love to here why you voted for who you voted for in the comments section!

Source: https://www.postingandtoasting.com/...wore-it-best-anthony-mason-vs-bill-cartwright