Knicks Training Camp Roster: Who Makes the Cut?

With players like Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle in solid standing to make the roster, a short list of players are still fighting to rep the New York Knicks on opening night.
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Training camp is now in full swing for the New York Knicks, and players are now fighting for roster spots in a contested lineup. With just 12 guaranteed contracts given out at this time, six players fight for the final three spots.

The Guaranteed Contracts:

  • RJ Barrett
  • Jalen Brunson
  • Donte DiVincenzo
  • Evan Fournier
  • Quentin Grimes
  • Josh Hart
  • Isaiah Hartenstein
  • Miles McBride
  • Immanuel Quickley
  • Julius Randle
  • Mitchell Robinson
  • Jericho Sims

The biggest story here is the starting two guard. Quentin Grimes has made a strong case for the position, but with Donte DiVincenzo, Josh Hart, Immanuel Quickley, or even Evan Fournier in contention, a strong training camp is needed before the spot can be solidified.

DaQuan Jeffries has appeared on the Knicks' Summer League team in each of the past two seasons (USA TODAY SPORTS)
DaQuan Jeffries has appeared on the Knicks' Summer League team in each of the past two seasons (USA TODAY SPORTS)

Outside the 15 players on the full roster, the Knicks also have Dylan Windler, Nathan Knight, and Jaylen Martin signed to two-way contracts.

Players Up for Contracts:

  • Ryan Arcidiacono
  • Charlie Brown Jr.
  • DaQuan Jeffries ($2 million non-guaranteed)
  • Isaiah Roby ($2 million non-guaranteed)
  • Jacob Toppin
  • Duane Washington Jr.

Back in town with fellow Villanova alumni Brunson, DiVincenzo, and Hart, Ryan Arcidiacono looks to be the safest of the bunch. Having previously worked with head coach Tom Thibodeau's Knicks in each of the last two seasons, the 6-3 guard seems right at home in the Mecca of basketball.

Behind him, Thibodeau has spoken highly of guard DaQuan Jeffries, and that combined with his 6-5 frame makes him a contender for an interior spot. Jeffries will have to outperform Summer League standout Charlie Brown Jr. and veteran Duane Washington Jr. in training camp to guarantee his place.

In the final spot, there is speculation that the Knicks could leave it empty, but if not, Isaiah Roby is a presumed pickup for the team after the loss of Obi Toppin this offseason. Even with rumors swirling that Hart could play minutes at the backup four, Roby brings a steady defensive presence inside with his size and wingspan. Jacob Toppin is also in contention for the backup four role, but after missing all of Summer League due to injuries, his chances are wearing thin if he cannot show out in training camp.


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Isaac Bourne
ISAAC BOURNE

Isaac is a sports journalist and feature writer from Murray, Kentucky. He is currently a junior at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, and is pursuing a degree in communications with an emphasis in Sports Media.