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The New York Knicks are gunning for an NBA championship and they have the roster to compete at the highest level in the 2024-25 season. Superstar Jalen Brunson and co-star Julius Randle have plenty of help with OG Anunoby re-signing and Mikal Bridges coming on board. The Knicks have excellent players who can compete on both ends of the court and their depth chart is divided into six tiers below.
Tier 1: Superstars
Jalen Brunson
Jalen Brunson is the superstar of New York right now and it is impossible to argue that. The point guard had a terrific campaign in 2023-24, averaging 28.7 points and 6.7 assists per game in the regular season and 32.4 points and 7.5 assists per game in the playoffs. Brunson has become one of the best players in the NBA and he will be the driving force behind the Knicks’ goal of winning an NBA championship. The Knicks have a problem with the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers looking strong, but if Brunson can continue playing at a superstar level, they have a chance to win it.
Tier 2: All-Stars
Julius Randle
The Knicks missed Julius Randle last year because the two-time All-Star averaged 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game in 48 games but missed the entire postseason. The Knicks needed him to get over the hump but the Indiana Pacers took advantage to reach the Eastern Conference Finals following a dramatic Game 7 victory. Looking ahead to the 2024-25 season, if Randle can return to his All-Star self and actually remain healthy, the Knicks have one of the best duos in the NBA that will have plenty of help across the depth chart as well.
Tier 3: Fringe All-Stars
Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby
The Knicks made a huge splash this summer by acquiring Mikal Bridges, one of the most versatile and durable two-way players in the NBA. Last season, he averaged 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game while shooting 37.2% from beyond the arc, solidifying himself as a premier 3-and-D wing. Bridges’ ability to guard the opponent’s best perimeter player while providing consistent scoring makes him a perfect complement to Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle. His defensive prowess and expanding offensive game put him on the cusp of an All-Star selection, making him a crucial piece in the Knicks' championship aspirations.
The other major move the Knicks made this summer is re-signing OG Anunoby to a five-year, $213 million deal. Anunoby is a defensive ace with the offensive skill set to stretch the floor and score efficiently. In the 2023-24 season, Anunoby averaged 14.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game, earning a reputation as one of the league’s top perimeter defenders. His ability to knock down threes (38.2% last season) and guard multiple positions makes him a perfect fit for New York’s system. Anunoby’s impact on both ends of the court elevates the Knicks' chances of making a deep playoff run, positioning him as a defensive star in the league.
Tier 4: Key Role Players
Josh Hart, Donte DiVincenzo
Josh Hart is the ultimate glue guy for the Knicks, providing energy, rebounding, and defense in crucial moments. Last season, he averaged 9.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, filling the stat sheet while playing tenacious defense on the perimeter. His numbers were even more impressive in the postseason as the forward averaged 14.5 points and 11.5 rebounds per game. Hart’s ability to guard multiple positions and contribute in transition makes him invaluable to the Knicks' rotation. His hustle, intangibles, and knack for making winning plays will be essential as New York competes for a title.
The 6’4” Donte DiVincenzo is a versatile guard who brings toughness, shooting, and playmaking to the Knicks' backcourt. In the 2023-24 season, DiVincenzo averaged a career-high 15.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, while shooting 40.1% from three-point range. His defensive intensity and ability to play both guard positions make him a key role player for New York, especially in lineups where he can share the floor with Jalen Brunson. DiVincenzo’s championship experience (with the 2021 Golden State Warriors) and all-around skill set provide crucial depth and reliability for the Knicks.
Tier 5: Supplementary Pieces
Mitchell Robinson, Precious Achiuwa, Miles McBride
Mitchell Robinson is a dominant rim protector and rebounder who anchors the Knicks' defense but the problem is that he can’t stay healthy. Last season, he averaged 5.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting a remarkable 57.5% from the field in 31 appearances. Robinson’s elite shot-blocking ability and presence in the paint deter opponents from attacking the rim. The problem is, Robinson has played 90 games in two seasons which is a tad concerning.
Precious Achiuwa brings energy, athleticism, and versatility to the Knicks’ frontcourt. Last season with the Raptors, he averaged 7.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game, showcasing his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. Achiuwa’s defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, while his rebounding and finishing around the rim provide valuable support for the Knicks' bigs. His high motor and defensive upside make him a reliable option off the bench as a replacement for the departed Isaiah Hartenstein.
Miles McBride is a gritty guard who provides defensive intensity and playmaking off the bench. Last season, he averaged 8.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in limited minutes (19.5 MPG), but his impact went beyond the stat sheet. McBride’s ability to hound opposing ball-handlers and bring energy to the second unit is crucial for maintaining defensive pressure when the starters rest. As his offensive game develops, McBride could carve out a larger role in the Knicks' rotation.
Tier 6: Bench
Cameron Payne, Keita Bates-Diop, Chuma Okeke, Jericho Sims, Tyler Kolek, Pacome Dadiet
Cameron Payne is a seasoned backup point guard who provides instant offense and playmaking off the bench. Last season, he averaged 7.4 points and 2.6 assists per game with the Suns. His ability to run the second unit and hit timely shots makes him a valuable depth piece for the Knicks.
Keita Bates-Diop is a versatile forward who can contribute defensively and space the floor. Last season, he averaged 3.7 points per game while shooting 30.4% from deep. His length and ability to defend multiple positions give the Knicks additional flexibility off the bench.
Chuma Okeke is a 26-year-old forward known for his defensive potential and three-point shooting. Last season, he struggled with injuries but still managed to contribute with his size in 9.2 minutes per game with the Orlando Magic.
Jericho Sims is an athletic big man who excels as a rebounder and shot-blocker. Last season, he averaged 3.3 rebounds and 0.4 blocks per game in limited minutes (13.0 MPG). His energy and rim protection make him a reliable option as an end-of-rotation big.
Tyler Kolek is a rookie guard known for his playmaking and basketball IQ. In college, he averaged 7.7 assists per game, showing a knack for facilitating the offense. He will need time to adjust to the NBA level, but his court vision and passing could earn him spot minutes.
Pacome Dadiet is a raw but intriguing international prospect with good size and athleticism. He’ll likely spend most of his rookie year developing, but his potential as a versatile wing defender makes him a name to watch for the future. His development could be key for the Knicks down the road.
Related: 3 Different Starting Lineups The Knicks Could Use For The 2024-25 NBA Season
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