Knicks Rumors: New York Reportedly Signs Ronnie Brewer

The New York Knicks are not finished making moves and have reportedly added shooting guard Ronnie Brewer.

NBA.com’s David Aldridge broke the news via Twitter:

"

Knicks continue to build backcourt, agreeing 2 terms with ex-Bull Ronnie Brewer on one-year deal, per source. Check the Hang Time Bkog soon.

— David Aldridge (@daldridgetnt) July 24, 2012"

Brewer played the last two seasons with the Chicago Bulls as part of a group of reserves affectionately called the “Bench Mob” by the team’s fans. He averaged 6.9 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 24.8 minutes per game this past season.

The 27-year-old became an unrestricted free agent on July 10 when the Bulls decided to decline a team option worth $4.37 million for the upcoming season, as noted by K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune. 

Brewer is 6’7” with long arms, giving him excellent size for the shooting guard position. This has allowed him to be a terrific defender, as he has averaged at least one steal per game every year after his rookie season.

He fit perfectly in Tom Thibodeau’s defense-first style of basketball, and now he will look to fill the defensive void left by Landry Fields, who signed with the Toronto Raptors this offseason.

Brewer provides qualities that J.R. Smith, the team’s other shooting guard, does not bring to the court. Smith can be an electric scorer—averaging 12.5 points per game off the bench last season—but his defensive contribution is often disappointing.

Brewer is a smart and unselfish player. The Knicks have been extremely active in free agency this offseason and were wise to add a “glue guy” like Brewer who can contribute valuable minutes.