The New York Knicks are reportedly considering the addition of Russell Westbrook, the 2017 NBA MVP, to strengthen their bench for the upcoming season. Westbrook, currently a free agent after spending last year with the Denver Nuggets, has drawn attention as the Knicks seek to improve their second unit’s productivity and overall energy.

Analysts See Potential Fit Despite Limited Playing Time

Though recent rumors linking Westbrook to the Knicks have been sparse, NBA analyst Rachel Nichols emphasized a potential mutual interest between the player and the franchise. Speaking with Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, Nichols asserted that Westbrook’s style and veteran presence could fill a needed role on New York’s roster. She explained,

[The Knicks are] a team that needs a guy like him, that actually has a slot for a guy like him,

and added,

I think he would flourish in New York. I think New York fans would love him, and I think he would be able to fill that sort of vet energy role really well.

Nichols also pointed out that such a move would require team-wide acceptance:

They just got to get the rest of the guys on the team to sign on, because this is not a decision that a front office makes alone.

Current Backcourt Depth Poses Challenges for Westbrook

Despite the potential benefits, Westbrook’s immediate role with the Knicks is uncertain given the team’s already deep backcourt. New York recently enhanced its bench by acquiring 2021 Sixth Man of the Year Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele in the offseason, limiting available playing time. Stefan Bondy of the New York Post highlighted these challenges, remarking there is “no clear path” for Westbrook to secure consistent minutes, since he is

not the type [of player] to sit comfortably on the bench.

Additionally, Westbrook is overcoming hand surgery performed in the offseason, a factor that contributed to his decision to decline a lucrative player option from Denver.

Statistical Contributions Could Address Knicks’ Bench Scoring Woes

While Westbrook may no longer perform at his MVP-caliber levels, his recent stats indicate he could still provide valuable production. Last season with the Nuggets, Westbrook averaged 13.6 points and 6.1 assists mainly in a bench role. These numbers contrast sharply with the Knicks’ bench, which ranked last in the league in scoring the previous season, suggesting Westbrook’s arrival could fill a significant gap.

Remaining Roster Spot Sparks Competition Among Veterans

The Knicks have one remaining slot available on their roster for a veteran minimum contract, intensifying speculation about who might fill it. Among the candidates is Ben Simmons, a three-time All-Star and fellow former Los Angeles Clipper, who is also a free agent engaged in discussions with multiple teams. Simmons has not yet announced his next destination, leaving the door open for the Knicks to explore Westbrook as a viable option to bolster their bench depth.

Looking Ahead: Knicks’ Search for Consistent Bench Production

As the Knicks prepare for the coming season, the possibility of integrating a veteran like Russell Westbrook reflects their ongoing effort to strengthen a second unit that struggled significantly last year. If the team can navigate roster dynamics and secure buy-in from existing players, Westbrook’s experience and energy might become essential in stabilizing and energizing New York’s bench. With the eyes of fans and analysts closely watching, the next roster moves will prove critical in shaping the Knicks’ competitive outlook.