The New York Knicks are making moves this offseason, focusing on strengthening their roster. On Tuesday, the team’s official PR account on X announced that they have re-signed backup big man Precious Achiuwa to a one-year contract. According to Achiuwa’s agent, Raymond Brothers, he’ll earn $6 million for the 2024-25 season, though the Knicks have not confirmed this figure.
As reported by Fred Katz of The Athletic, Achiuwa had the option of a no-trade clause when re-signing but chose not to take it. His reasonable contract and youthful potential make him an attractive asset for trades if Knicks president Leon Rose decides to shake things up this year.
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After a second-round playoff exit marred by injuries, the Knicks have been proactive this summer. The highlight of their offseason was trading for All-Defensive wing Mikal Bridges, sending Bojan Bogdanovic and several future draft picks to the Nets.
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Bridges gives the Knicks a chance to reunite former Villanova Wildcats teammates Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo. Following the Bridges deal, Brunson also re-signed with New York on a favorable contract.
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Meanwhile, Achiuwa’s former teammate OG Anunoby recently agreed to a five-year, $212.5 million extension with the Raptors. Keeping a player of Anunoby’s caliber was a smart move for the Knicks, even though it comes with a considerable price tag for a player with an injury history.
Additionally, the Knicks signed free agent point guard Cameron Payne and are bringing back bench guard Shake Milton, while head coach Tom Thibodeau has also secured a long-term extension after leading the team to the playoffs in three of his four seasons.
Read More: Knicks, Tom Thibodeau Agree to Three-Season Contract Extension
Re-signing Achiuwa is a crucial part of the Knicks’ strategy, especially after losing starting center Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder on a hefty contract. With Hartenstein gone, Achiuwa, who excelled at the small-ball center position during Robinson’s absences, is likely to step into a more significant role. Known for his strong rebounding and scoring efficiency, Achiuwa averaged 7.2 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game in limited minutes after joining the Knicks.
Last season, the Knicks finished with a solid 50-32 record, earning the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference, but they’ve not reached the Conference Finals in 20 years. With their current depth, they look set to make a serious run this season.
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