Most of the New York Knicks’ roster is set for the 2025-26 season, but a few pieces remain to be added, per The Athletic’s James Edwards III.
After signing Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele – both for slightly less than the taxpayer midlevel exception – New York can still add a veteran minimum player and a second-round rookie exception player.
It’s too early to make firm conclusions about the rotation under new coach Mike Brown, who could still add a minimum-salary player. That said, here’s a very early look at the likely depth chart, with another update expected after the preseason:
Projected Depth Chart
- PG: Jalen Brunson, Miles McBride, Tyler Kolek
- SG: Mikal Bridges, Jordan Clarkson
- SF: OG Anunoby, Josh Hart
- PF/C: Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, Guerschon Yabusele, Ariel Hukporti, Pacôme Dadiet
Starting Lineup Notes
Josh Hart arguably deserves a starting role, but if Brown prioritizes defense, Mitchell Robinson will anchor the frontcourt instead.
Last postseason, the lineup of Brunson, Bridges, Anunoby, Towns, and Hart struggled (-6.2 net rating), prompting Robinson’s insertion, which improved performance slightly (-3.7 net rating).
It’s likely Robinson becomes a permanent starter, with Yabusele subbing in for a more five-out look and Towns at center. Hart could remain in the starting lineup due to his hustle and offensive fit.
Rotation and Minutes
Hukporti may see limited minutes behind Towns, Robinson, Yabusele, and Hart. Brown is expected to use a nine-man rotation: Brunson, Bridges, Anunoby, Towns, Hart, Robinson, McBride, Clarkson, and Yabusele.
Depth beyond that may be limited, though Pacôme Dadiet or another veteran could get occasional minutes. A backup point guard is still needed; McBride could fill that role if the final veteran minimum goes to someone like Landry Shamet.
Two-Way Players
Second-round pick Mohamed Diawara could fill one two-way spot, with Kevin McCullar likely returning to another. The third spot might go to someone like Dink Pate.
McCullar cannot use the second-round rookie exception due to his prior two-way experience; he would require a veteran minimum slot or a trade to join the main roster.
