Knicks’ Struggles to Attract Veterans Highlight a Bigger Problem
The New York Knicks are facing an unexpected hurdle as they try to finalize their roster: convincing veteran free agents to accept a limited role. A recent admission from Daniel Theis, along with earlier reports about Marcus Smart, sheds light on a deeper issue that could affect how the team fills its last roster spot.
Daniel Theis Reveals Why He Turned the Knicks Down
Last season, while Mitchell Robinson was recovering from a left ankle injury, the Knicks reportedly reached out to Daniel Theis about joining on a veteran minimum deal. Speaking on the Euro Insiders podcast, Theis revealed that he passed on New York’s offer after hearing from Tom Thibodeau that his role would be “insurance in case Mitchell Robinson can’t play.”
Rather than signing on for spot duty, Theis chose to play for Monaco, where he would have a clearer role. The Knicks have already seen a similar situation this summer, with Marcus Smart reportedly uninterested in New York due to playing time concerns before eventually signing with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Knicks Need a Veteran Comfortable With Limited Minutes
The Knicks’ challenge is straightforward: whoever signs for their final veteran minimum slot must be prepared to spend stretches on the bench. Mike Brown is expected to rely on a nine-man rotation that includes Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart, Mitchell Robinson, Deuce McBride, Jordan Clarkson, and Guerschon Yabusele.
That doesn’t leave consistent minutes for a tenth player, meaning whoever fills that spot will need to accept DNPs early in the year. Of course, the NBA season is long and unpredictable. Injuries can create opportunities at any moment, and recent playoff runs from the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder prove how critical depth can be.
Could a Familiar Face Solve the Problem?
SNY’s Ian Begley has reported mutual interest in a reunion between the Knicks and veteran guard Landry Shamet, who played in New York last season. Shamet managed to carve out a rotation role in the playoffs and might be more comfortable than others with the idea of battling his way into minutes again.
If Clarkson, McBride, or one of the Knicks’ wings misses time, Shamet could be an ideal next-man-up option. But if even he has reservations about playing time, the Knicks may find themselves scrambling to fill out the roster.
Final Thoughts
The Knicks are built to contend this season, but their difficulty attracting veterans points to a deeper issue: established players want defined roles, not “break glass in case of emergency” minutes. For a team with championship aspirations, finding the right balance between experience and patience at the end of the bench could make all the difference down the stretch.
