Why the Knicks Haven’t Signed Precious Achiuwa Yet
The New York Knicks are still in the market for a backup center. Despite the initial flurry of activity in free agency, the team has chosen to remain patient and quiet, waiting for the right opportunity to arise.
One player on the Knicks’ radar is Precious Achiuwa. Achiuwa played with the Knicks last season after being traded from the Toronto Raptors as part of the OG Anunoby deal. According to The Athletic’s insider Fred Katz, “The Knicks remain open to bringing back Achiuwa, who they acquired in the December trade that brought OG Anunoby to New York. Yet, for now, they are best leaving Achiuwa unsigned — and Achiuwa can maximize his market by waiting.”
While the Knicks could sign Achiuwa outright for a few million dollars, they might also consider using him in a sign-and-trade to acquire a player who could offer an upgrade. “A trade could entice them, but they need the tools to make it happen,” Katz continues. “Achiuwa would come in handy if they’re negotiating with a team also above the first apron.”
With roster spots filling up across the NBA, some teams have no available spaces, while others are keeping a few spots open for potential opportunities. For a young player like Achiuwa, signing a short-term deal with a team that will give him consistent minutes could be beneficial, allowing him to secure a more lucrative contract in the future. While Achiuwa could also rejoin the Knicks and play as the ninth or tenth man in Tom Thibodeau’s rotation, the delay in signing suggests some uncertainty about their mutual interest in continuing the partnership.
Keeping Achiuwa on the market allows the Knicks to maintain flexibility and pivot as needed. This flexibility is crucial for New York as they aim to improve their roster ahead of a potentially contending year for the franchise. By remaining patient, the Knicks can explore various options and make strategic moves to enhance their chances of success in the upcoming season.
