JUST IN : Three questions facing New York Knicks ahead of 2024-25 season

To prepare for the 2024-25 NBA season, we’ve compiled a list of three questions that each team may face. Today, we’re focussing on the New York Knicks, who are looking to build on their successful playoff run in 2023-24. Will Isaiah Hartenstein be missed? The Knicks were +10.4 points better without him.

New York has yet to replace Hartenstein in their rotation, leaving a significant hole on the team’s bench. The Knicks have been linked with potential trades for multiple centres, including Kevon Looney, but those rumours have yet to come to fruition. Given Mitchell Robinson’s recent injury history, New York will undoubtedly be cautious about its centre rotation to begin the season, putting additional pressure on Jericho Sims and Precious Achiu.

Randle’s contract expires in two years, but he has a player option for the 2025-26 season. The Knicks may consider extending his contract, but they must consider their financial situation and Jalen Brunson’s sacrifice to maintain cap flexibility. Randle’s future with the Knicks is uncertain unless he signs a team-friendly deal. However, his value to Thibodeau’s roster cannot be overstated.

The front office may be tempted to trade Randle, but the Knicks are better with him on the court. However, if there is no guarantee he will re-sign with the franchise and there is a risk the team will lose him for nothing at the end of the season, the Knicks may be forced to explore their options. Randle is a core cog for the Knicks, and they will need him to compete for a championship next season.

In 82 games with the Brooklyn Nets, Bridges averaged 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while shooting 43.6% from the field and 37.2% from three. He will not be as prominent in the Knicks offence and may take some time to acclimatise to becoming a secondary or tertiary option.

Nonetheless, if he can convert his open looks, create for himself, and defend the wing at an elite level, he has the potential to spark a deep postseason run. That is, of course, assuming the Knicks can remain healthy.