Knicks Re-Sign Key Contributor in Frontcourt

Leon Rose has actively assembled the New York Knicks roster for the 2024-25 season this summer. They continued to bolster their bench depth by re-signing Precious Achiuwa to a one-year, $6 million Tuesday.

This move doesn't come as a surprise, as New York has been looking for someone to fill the hole left by backup center Isaiah Hartenstein, who left the Knicks for the Oklahoma City Thunder in free agency.

Achiuwa was a mid-season trade last year from the Toronto Raptors, who sent him, OG Anunoby, and Malachi Flynn to the Knicks in exchange for RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and a 2024 second-round pick.

The 24-year-old forward played a significant role in New York's frontcourt last season while Mitchell Robinson and Julius Randle were injured during the team's postseason run.

Last year, Achiuwa averaged 7.6 points on 52.5 percent shooting from the field and 7.2 rebounds per game in 49 games (18 starts).

He immediately impacted Tom Thibodeau's squad, and with Hartenstein's departure this offseason, we can expect an increase in Achiuwa's numbers off the bench next year. We can expect him to be used as a backup power forward and center, but the Knicks could still be in the market for another piece to bolster their frontcourt.

Thanks to star point guard Jalen Brunson, who took a historic pay cut on his new contract extension, the Knicks are in a great position to build towards becoming consistent title contenders for years to come.

Rose acquired Mikal Bridges in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets, extended Brunson's contract, re-signed Anunoby and Achiuwa, signed veteran guard Cameron Payne, and signed Thibs to a three-year contract extension since the end of last season.

It's still unclear whether or not Rose has more moves up his sleeve for now, but we know that Achiuwa and Jericho Sims will compete for backup opportunities behind Randle and Robinson.

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