Knicks mulling between Ben Simmons and 38.5% 3-point shooter after handing Mikal Bridges $150M extension

The New York Knicks have been busy within the offseason, making vital adjustments, together with the firing of coach Tom Thibodeau and the recruitment of Mike Brown. The group has additionally acquired some key items for his or her bench with the signings of Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele.

On Thursday, the Knicks reached a four-year, $150 million extension with Mikal Bridges. He performed all 82 video games for the group in 2024-25, averaging 17.6 factors, 3.2 rebounds and three.7 assists per sport. Bridges turned eligible for a $156 million deal this offseason after New York traded for him in July 2024.

In accordance with Ian Begley, the 6-foot-6 ahead gave up $6 million to provide the Knicks extra monetary flexibility. The Knicks have one roster spot left to fill and stay concerned about Ben Simmons and Landry Shamet.

“They continue to be concerned about Ben Simmons, concerned about Landry Shamet. It’ll be fascinating to see which manner they go together with that final roster spot. However, you recognize that Mikal Bridges’ spot on this group is safe for years to come back,” Begley stated.

Simmons made 51 appearances for the Brooklyn Nets and LA Clippers final season, recording 5.0 factors, 5.6 assists and 4.7 rebounds. Whereas he provides little when it comes to offense, his size and agility make him a strong defender.

Shamet performed 50 video games for New York in 2024-25, recording 5.7 factors and 1.2 rebounds. He shot 46.1% from the sector and 39.7% from past the arc. Shamet shoots 38.5% from 3-point vary for his profession and could be a helpful asset for a lot of groups.

The New York Knicks have taken a step ahead this summer season

Led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Cities, New York reached the Japanese Convention finals final season. Brunson and Co. navigated a troublesome path within the East, beating the Detroit Pistons within the first spherical earlier than dealing with the Boston Celtics within the semifinals.

The Knicks have been two wins away from making their first NBA Finals look in over twenty years, however the Indiana Pacers stopped them in six video games.

Regardless of their crushing defeat, the group has completed properly to arrange for an additional run. Even when New York leaves the ultimate roster spot unfilled, the present group is predicted to be sturdy sufficient to make one other run within the East.