In a move that solidifies their frontcourt depth, the New York Knicks have secured the services of forward Precious Achiuwa for another year. The player, who had been acquired midseason in a trade with the Toronto Raptors, has agreed to a one-year contract worth $6 million. This was confirmed by his representative, Raymond Brothers, who said, "It's a one-year, $6 million deal." The deal aims to build on the Knicks' recent positive momentum and Achiuwa's solid contributions to the team.
Midseason Trade Impact
The midseason trade that brought Achiuwa to the Knicks also involved OG Anunoby, adding a dynamic element to New York’s playing style. Since joining the Knicks, Achiuwa has proven to be a valuable addition, slotting seamlessly into the rotation and providing both offensive and defensive versatility.
Achiuwa ended the season as a key member of the Knicks' lineup. He started in 18 regular-season games and made an impact in the postseason with two starts. Over the span of 49 games with the Knicks, Achiuwa averaged 7.6 points and 7.2 rebounds in 24.2 minutes per game. His ability to play both power forward and center has given the Knicks more flexibility in their lineups.
A Promising Prospect
Originally drafted by the Miami Heat as the 20th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, Achiuwa has shown steady development in his game. At just 24 years old, with his 25th birthday coming up in September, he still has significant upside. The Knicks are particularly keen on improving Achiuwa's shooting consistency, which could make him an even more significant contributor.
Achiuwa's familiarity with the team and his demonstrated ability to adapt quickly were key reasons behind the Knicks' decision to re-sign him. The organization believes that with additional focus on his shooting, Achiuwa can elevate his game and become a more well-rounded player.
Aiming for Improvement
The Knicks have shown commendable progress, but their ambitions extend further, especially concerning their playoff performance. With Achiuwa’s re-signing, the Knicks aim to bolster their roster to face the challenges of the highly competitive Eastern Conference.
As they gear up for the upcoming season, the Knicks are optimistic that Achiuwa’s continued development will play a part in their quest for playoff success. His re-signing is more than just an investment in talent; it reflects the Knicks' strategy of continuity and growth. Achiuwa's role in the team’s rotation is expected to remain significant, and his contributions will likely be pivotal in the team's pursuit of excellence.