New York Knicks' Biggest Offseason Needs Ahead of 2026 NBA Draft

The New York Knicks don't have many weaknesses, as evidenced by their run to the 2026 NBA Finals. With Mitchell Robinson hitting free agency, however, New York may have to find a new backup center behind Karl-Anthony Towns.

A big man who can protect the rim would be an added bonus. The Knicks ranked 29th overall in blocks per game last season (3.9) with Robinson accounting for nearly a third of these (1.2).

With three picks in this draft, including two in the top 31, New York has a couple swings at fixing this issue.

2025-26 Record: 53-29

Draft Picks: 24, 31, 55

Get the Band Back Together

All five members of the New York Knicks' starting lineup are under contract for next season. Having that box checked is huge.

But Robinson and Landry Shamet, likely the Knicks' most important reserves in this title run, are free agents.

Both may have earned raises. And keeping them on board could be costly, but New York should absolutely pony up and keep as much of his group together as possible.

Wing Depth

Even if those two come back and Jose Alvarado picks up his player option (which is far from guaranteed), the Knicks would still have several roster spots available.

And while there's probably a need for a little depth at every spot, a backup wing feels most important.

Throughout this postseason, New York really didn't have one to play (Alvarado, Shamet, Miles McBride and Jordan Clarkson are all guards).

Backup Point Guard

If Alvarado does decline his option, a backup 1 would suddenly be real important.

Jalen Brunson carries one of the bigger minutes loads in the league and has made it to at least the conference finals in three of his last five postseason appearances.

His body has been through a lot in recent years, and having a capable backup could help preserve him for future runs.