Heading into the 2025-26 NBA season, the New York Knicks seem pretty comfortable with their roster. Led by stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, they are rounded out by several high-level role players and a bolstered bench unit.
However, as the Boston Celtics proved this summer, the second apron and its increasing tax penalties can bring even the best teams to a screeching halt. The Knicks have $200 million committed this season and $201 million already on the books for the season after that.
With Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges all under contract at least through the 2028-29 season, the only way New York can shed massive amounts of payroll would be by not re-signing Towns when he hits unrestricted free agency in three years, or even sooner if he declines his option.
Ideally, for the Knicks, they will still be in contention even then and will want a high-level center to hold down the paint. In the event that Towns proves to be too costly, the Knicks have been encouraged to target Kristaps Porzingis.
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 08: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks and Kristaps Porzingis #8 of the Boston Celtics talk in the first half at Madison Square Garden on April 08, 2025 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
New York Urged to Add Kristaps Porzingis
Porzingis was drafted fourth overall by the Knicks in 2015 and spent his first three seasons in New York. He averaged 17.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and two blocks while shooting 36.1% from deep, making his only All-Star team in 2018.
Porzingis plays a very similar role to Towns, although the Knicks wouldn’t make a charge at adding him until (if) KAT is off the books.
“In a few seasons, however, the Knicks will need to reset their current roster as they avoid a long-term stay in the draconian second tax apron,” outlined FanSided’s Josh Cornelissen on September 23rd.
“That could represent a chance to bring back a former player such as Porzingis, patching things up and adding someone who once looked like the future of New York basketball.”
Porzingis Would Fit With Knicks’ Roster
Porzingis, like Towns, is a high-level offensive center who can handle the ball and should be able to maximize Brunson’s offense. While he is not as good a rebounder, there is a case to be made that he is a better defender.
“He could do much of the same pick-and-pop actions that Karl-Anthony Towns runs with Jalen Brunson, but also bring rim protection on the other end of the court,” explained Cornelissen.
This season, Porzingis will make $23 million less than Towns, although by the time the Knicks can realistically sign him, he will be 32 years old, and he has an extensive injury history.
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 08: Kristaps Porzingis #8 of the Boston Celtics reacts after his three point shot in overtime against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on April 08, 2025 in New York City. The Boston Celtics defeated the New York Knicks 119-117. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Knicks Will Have Trouble Signing Porzingis
Porzingis will be an unrestricted free agent next summer, and there’s no reason to think that the Atlanta Hawks will let him walk. At this point in his career, he will likely sign the longest deal possible.
In order for the Knicks to add him, his next contract will have to line up with when Towns either declines his player option or wait until the following summer.
Towns’ next contract could very well be another maximum deal, which the Knicks won’t be in a position to shell out for. While New York will eventually have a hole in the frontcourt to fill, Porzingis might not be the answer.
Backup Mitchell Robinson, a future draft pick, or a different free agent pickup all remain possibilities for the Knicks in the future. While Porzingis fits the ideal big next to Brunson, New York will have to hope for perfect circumstances.
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