The Knicks appear largely set for the 2025-26 season, but James L. Edwards III of The Athletic says a few roster decisions will still shape New York’s rotation.
With Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele signed, the Knicks can fill out the main roster with one veteran-minimum addition and a second-round rookie exception.
Mike Brown’s arrival as head coach introduces uncertainty about minutes and lineup choices after Tom Thibodeau’s departure.
Edwards offers a way-early depth chart that starts Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson.
That projected starting five leans into spacing with Towns at center and Robinson anchoring rim protection when Brown opts for defense.
Josh Hart figures prominently as a high-usage, high-effort wing who could still stake a claim for a starting spot. Edwards notes Hart deserves starter consideration, but Brown may prioritize defensive balance by keeping Robinson in the frontcourt.
The writer predicts a nine-man rotation to begin the year: Brunson, Bridges, Anunoby, Towns, Hart, Robinson, Miles McBride, Clarkson and Yabusele.
That nine-man outlook leaves limited minutes for Ariel Hukporti, who might be used sparingly unless Robinson faces load management or injuries.
New York’s depth picture could shift if the team adds a veteran minimum guard — Landry Shamet is a realistic target mentioned in reporting.
Two-way slots appear earmarked for Mohamed Diawara (the Knicks’ second-round pick), Kevin McCullar and perhaps a prospect like Dink Pate.
Edwards cautions that McCullar isn’t eligible for the second-round exception and would need a different roster mechanism to land a full contract.
The Knicks’ rotation strategy likely will prioritize defense without sacrificing spacing, aiming to maximize Towns’ floor-spacing and Robinson’s rim work.
How Brown balances minutes between Towns and Robinson will be one of the season’s early storylines in New York.
