The New York Knicks are in a great position ahead of the 2025-2026 NBA season. Their top seven rotation players are returning, and the only major change made to the team was at the head coach position, with former Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown taking over for Tom Thibodeau. Their depth also improved, with the free-agent signings of guard Jordan Clarkson and forward Guerschon Yabusele.
For a team that took the Eastern Conference champion Indiana Pacers six games, New York is set up to be a top contender in the East this year, but are there still moves left to be made to put them over the top?
The Knicks still have one more veteran minimum slot on their payroll, and David Vertsberger of SNY believes New York could find an impact player to add to their bench and fill out the roster.
Which Veteran Could Help the Knicks Right Now?
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Vertsberger named former Sixth Man of the Year winner Malcom Brogdon as that last piece, and his reasoning is sound.
"If the Knicks have any reservations, signing Brogdon would be a nice insurance policy on their backcourt options." [Wrote](https://sny.tv/articles/5-potential-targets-knicks-last-veteran-minimum-spot) Verstberger. "Like (Ben) Simmons, he’s likely past his prime but can provide some reliable playmaking."
"His numbers have been otherwise unimpressive as of late, but he’s spent two years mired in unclear roles in rebuilding situations. Putting him in position to help more sporadically for a championship chaser may be just the thing he needs to have a strong year."
Brogdon may not be the player he once was with the Boston Celtics, but he still provides some great outside shooting and is a talented passer. A career 38% three-point shooter, Brogdon has also averaged 5.5 and 4.1 assists over the last two seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers and Washington Wizards.
While New York does have solid guard depth on the roster, with superstar Jalen Brunson and the newly signed Clarkson, neither is a true pass-first point guard. Deuce McBride serves better as a two-guard, and second-year player Tyler Kolek flashed potential at points throughout his rookie season, but his performances could be rough at times.
If Brunson misses any period of extended time like he did in 2024-2025, Brogdon would be a perfect short-term replacement point guard if the Knicks don't think Kolek is ready to take the reins. If New York is able, this would be the cherry on top of a great offseason.