The New York Knicks established themselves as a force in the Eastern Conference, currently in third place at the start of March. According to NBA regulations, the Knicks hold 14 players on standard contracts. Unlike other teams at full capacity, this structure leaves a crucial spot unfilled. The Knicks front office sits at $540,127 in available cap space, defining their parameters for their final roster spot for the remainder of this season.
Several experienced players remain available in free agency, or showcasing their readiness in the G-League. Out of all the possible candidates available, here are the top three I’d be okay with the Knicks selecting that could make an immediate positive impact while fitting perfectly under the Knicks’ remaining cap space. Each player brings unique skills that could fit the team’s rotation as they push toward the playoffs. Knicks management faces unprecedented challenges with this final addition knowing whomever they choose fits a particular need down the stretch of the regular season.
Available pool of free agents for NYK will include Mo Bamba, Moses Brown, TJ Warren, Chuma Okeke, PJ Tucker, Marcus Morris Sr., Taj Gibson. Just my opinion from being around the NBA for a few years: Knicks should take a hard look at Tucker. The 39-year-old gives New York…
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) March 1, 2025
7'2" former Westchester Knick Moses Brown on a 10-day with the Dallas Mavericks:
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) February 28, 2025
20 points
9-14 FG
11 rebounds
2 blocks
3 steals pic.twitter.com/f2sbh0cZ4w
Moses Brown: Frontcourt Depth
Moses Brown’s rise through the G-League has included some dominant performances. Brown’s stint with Dallas on a current 10-day deal has had a significant milestone in his career path. His 20-point, 11-rebound game against Charlotte demonstrated his raw talent. The young center’s 65.0% field goal percentage solidified his status as an efficient scorer. The 7’2″ center has also aided Dallas’s defensive schemes during his time there. His averages of 4.8 points and 2.9 rebounds while protecting the rim could add insurance as Mitchell Robinson has just returned to the Knicks lineup.
Westchester Knicks connection
This body of work with the Westchester Knicks defined Brown’s developmental journey. His dominance translated into 15.9 points and 14.6 rebounds across 29.9 minutes per game. This includes his G-League Player of the Month honors in January averaging 16.7 points and 16.4 rebounds on 60.8% shooting. The catalyst for Brown’s rise included multiple milestones:
- First player in franchise history to record 30+ points and 20+ rebounds in a single game
- Led the team with 14 games of 15+ rebounds
- Named to the 2025 NBA G League Up Next Game during All-Star Weekend
This unique blend of size and skill shaped Brown’s development. His understanding of pick-and-roll actions reflects his basketball growth. At 25 years old, Brown’s ceiling remains untapped. When his Dallas contract completed, the Knicks could add much needed front court depth.
TJ Warren’s Scoring Potential
Knowing now the Knicks made no significant moves, March is here and Warren is technically eligible to join the roster. He had continued to light up the scoreboard in the G-League for the Westchester Knicks. Warren’s offensive output stands at 24.9 points and 6.3 rebounds alongside a 49.2% field goal percentage. His range extends beyond scoring, hitting 35.9% from three-point territory and 83.6% from the free-throw line. At the time of his latest outings, Warren poured in 47 points while connecting on 14-of-23 shots against the Charge. Back then against Delaware, he dropped 31 points coupled with six three-pointers. His all-around game features 3.6 assists and 1.9 steals per game. Whether it’s scoring or playmaking, Warren delivers 20+ points in 12 of his 15 G-League appearances.
Fit with current rotation
Warren brings scoring punch to address the Knicks’ bench struggles which has been a topic of discussion all year. His offensive arsenal could spark life into this unit. Initially at 6’8″, Warren’s frame allows him to operate at multiple forward spots. Notably, adding his willingness to score the basketball. This production could benefit the team during intense regular season stretches. His G-League stint alongside the Knicks organization shows he understands their style of play and has kept him ready for an opportunity.
Marcus Morris Sr.
In the business of basketball, Marcus Morris Sr. finds himself back in free agency following his release from Cleveland in February 2025. With intentions to play with the Knicks earlier this season, he now could join them once again. His veteran leadership during his time with his first stint with the Knicks sets a warm welcome from New Yorkers in a possible return. Don’t forget the Knicks traded away Morris which gave the Knicks the pick to select Immanuel Quickley. The rest is history.
The impact extends beyond numbers when looking at Morris Sr.’s 2019-20 campaign. During this extraordinary period, he piled up 19.6 points and 5.4 rebounds in 43 starts. The numbers show his remarkable touch, hitting 44.2% from the field paired with 43.9% from deep. This was potentially his best individual stretch of his NBA career. In comparison to other veterans, Morris Sr. fueled the offense with remarkable consistency. Another player who is willing to score the basketball and play tough defense. Looking ahead, his presence brought more than just scoring. The success played a crucial role in establishing accountability and toughness among younger players, serving as a mentor through high-pressure situations.
Scoring Ability
Now 35 years old, Morris Sr. can provide some good quality scoring on any given night. With career three-point shooting of 37.7%, Morris provides a unique blend of skills and veteran leadership is a good fit. This approach to creating his own shots in the post or potentially knocking down wide open threes off double teams provides a nice home for Morris for the rest of the season. His body of work could mark a nice acquisition in the Knicks’ championship pursuit. His experience and toughness could solidify the Knicks’ bench heading toward postseason battles.
Other Available Free Agent Options
PJ Tucker brings intensity and championship experience after his stint with the Clippers. Mo Bamba offers shot-blocking ability and floor spacing from the center position. Chuma Okeke presents upside as a young forward with defensive versatility. Taj Gibson delivers veteran leadership and familiarity with Coach Thibodeau’s system.
Closing The Regular Season Strong
The Knicks stand at a pivotal moment in their championship pursuit. A blend of talents characterizes their options for the final roster addition, each serving a distinct purpose in the team’s quest. Brown’s defensive prowess paired with his rim-running abilities speaks to the team’s interior needs. His performances in Dallas transformed perceptions of his game. Warren’s offensive arsenal alongside his scoring touch demonstrates untapped potential for a bench unit seeking firepower.
Morris Sr.’s track record in New York reflects his value. His postseason experience coupled with sharpshooting establishes him as a compelling option. The landscape also features other veterans like Tucker, Bamba, Okeke, and Gibson. Now that Mitchell Robinson has returned, the Knicks now can make a better calculated decision during this period. With every team being as good as their last player, this addition serves as more than roster completion – but also add to the team’s postseason identity. With the final stretch of the regular season coming up, New York wants to see their beloved Knicks play their best basketball leading into the postseason.
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