The New York Knicks now sit $300,000 under the “second apron” following the acquisitions of Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges. Importantly, they are prohibited from exceeding the second apron throughout the current season.
“This has been excellent execution of a strategy that’s been five years in development,” said Tom Thibodeau. “It’s been about accumulating draft assets, evaluating opportunities, and taking it step by step, figuring out what moves are feasible.”
There were several pivotal moments where the Knicks managed to reduce their 2024-25 salary cap in preparation for executing the Towns trade. Jalen Brunson’s contract, signed in 2022, decreased by $1.3 million from last season to this one, and Mitchell Robinson’s contract similarly dropped by $1.3 million.
Additionally, by opting not to extend a qualifying offer to Precious Achiuwa, the Knicks saved $300,000 compared to what he would have earned had they offered and he accepted it. They also secured Pacome Dadiet on a deal that paid 80 percent of his preassigned salary slot, saving the team $800,000.
Much of the Knicks’ savvy cap-saving maneuvers are attributed to Brock Aller, the team’s vice president of strategic planning.
“Brock has been outstanding,” said Thibodeau, who previously oversaw the Timberwolves’ front office. “It’s not easy work. You have to manage the immediate plan and also keep an eye on the long-term vision.
“You’re evaluating things from three perspectives: how it affects the product on the court, the financial ramifications, and any penalties involved. All three need to be deeply considered before making any decisions. They’ve done an incredible job in that regard.”
Knicks Made Multiple Cap Saving Moves Over Several Years To Stay $300,000 Under 2nd Apron https://t.co/98zPAdEa7K
— RealGM (@RealGM) October 11, 2024
