The New York Knicks head into the 2025-26 NBA season as one of the Eastern Conference’s top contenders. With their core seven rotation players returning, the addition of head coach Mike Brown, and free-agent signings like Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele, New York looks primed for another deep playoff run.
Still, the Knicks have one open veteran minimum roster spot — and filling it wisely could be the move that pushes them from strong contenders to true championship favorites.
Here’s a breakdown of the three most intriguing names being linked to the Knicks: Malcolm Brogdon, Ben Simmons, and Russell Westbrook.
Malcolm Brogdon: The Playmaker and Shooter the Knicks Need
Brogdon may not be the All-Star-caliber guard he was earlier in his career, but he still brings two things the Knicks desperately need: playmaking and reliable shooting.
- Career 38% three-point shooter
- Averaged 5.5 assists (2022-23) and 4.1 assists (2023-24) with Portland/Washington
- Former Sixth Man of the Year (2023) with Boston
According to SNY’s David Vertsberger, signing Brogdon would be an “insurance policy” for the Knicks’ backcourt.
“Like Simmons, he’s likely past his prime but can provide some reliable playmaking. Putting him in position to help more sporadically for a championship chaser may be just the thing he needs to have a strong year.”
With Jalen Brunson handling most of the offensive load and Clarkson serving as a microwave scorer off the bench, the Knicks lack a true pass-first point guard. Deuce McBride is more of a combo guard, while second-year Tyler Kolek still needs time to develop.
If Brunson misses time, Brogdon could step in as a stabilizing force, keeping the Knicks’ offense flowing while also spacing the floor.
Ben Simmons: A Wild Card Under Mike Brown
Once one of the NBA’s most unique stars, Ben Simmons has become a symbol of unfulfilled potential. Yet, under the right coach, his game could still offer value — and Mike Brown may be the perfect mentor.
What Simmons Brings
- Elite size for a guard at 6’10”
- Still a strong defensive presence when locked in
- Can push the pace in transition and create looks for teammates
As Vertsberger put it:
“Simmons can still push the ball off a defensive rebound and bring it up in the half-court, but has lost all aggressiveness on offense. He rarely looks to drive and when he does, it’s rare he actually attacks the rim.”
That said, Simmons’ passing and screening ability could be useful in Brown’s offensive system, which emphasizes ball movement and playmaking bigs (similar to how Brown used Domantas Sabonis in Sacramento).
The risk, of course, is Simmons’ offensive hesitancy and lengthy injury history. He hasn’t been able to sustain a consistent role on any roster since leaving Philadelphia.
If the Knicks want to gamble on upside and defensive versatility, Simmons might be worth the experiment. But his fit is far from guaranteed.
Russell Westbrook: Veteran Energy and Leadership
No, Westbrook isn’t the triple-double machine he was with the Thunder. But as he showed with the Denver Nuggetslast season, he can still provide energy, defense, and leadership in a limited role.
Why Westbrook Fits in New York
- Brings defensive intensity and never takes a play off
- Experienced veteran with playoff pedigree
- Can spell Brunson with an up-tempo change of pace
As Vertsberger wrote:
“What Westbrook’s lost in athleticism and scoring efficiency, he’s learned to make up for with his defensive tenacity and high-motor play. These are valuable things to bring off your bench, especially in a limited role on a small deal.”
The challenge? The Knicks already have three guards ahead of him in the rotation — Brunson, Clarkson, and McBride. Still, Westbrook’s locker room presence and ability to shift momentum with hustle plays could be invaluable during a long season.
If the Knicks want a vocal leader and a defensive spark, Westbrook is the move.
So Who’s the Best Fit?
- Brogdon: Safest option. Gives the Knicks the shooting and playmaking they lack.
- Simmons: High-risk, high-reward. Could thrive under Mike Brown — or fail to contribute at all.
- Westbrook: Veteran presence who can still defend and energize the team, but has limited minutes available.
Verdict: Malcolm Brogdon Should Be the Target
The Knicks don’t need a star; they need stability and reliability off the bench. That’s why Malcolm Brogdon makes the most sense. He’s a proven shooter, a steady passer, and capable of stepping in as a temporary starter if Brunson goes down.
For a team chasing its first championship in over 50 years, sometimes the safest choice is also the smartest one.
