The New York Knicks are expected to part ways with Precious Achiuwa in free agency. The versatile Bronx-born big man will test the open market after a solid stint in New York.

Precious Achiuwa’s time in New York is coming to an end. According to Steve Popper of Newsday, the 24-year-old forward/center is not expected to re-sign with the New York Knicks this offseason, making him one of the team’s notable departures as they reshape their roster for the 2025-26 NBA season.

Achiuwa’s exit reflects the Knicks’ changing priorities — focused on optimizing roster construction and managing cap space in pursuit of a legitimate title run.

From Trade Throw-In to Impact Player

Achiuwa arrived at Madison Square Garden in December 2023 as part of the high-profile trade that sent RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for OG Anunoby. Initially seen as a secondary piece, the Bronx native quickly made a name for himself with gritty performances and high-energy play.

In the absence of Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson, Achiuwa embraced an expanded role, averaging 7.6 points and 7.2 rebounds across 49 games. His athleticism, switchability on defense, and rebounding presence made him a valuable rotational player throughout the season.

A Cap-Casualty Exit

Despite his contributions, Achiuwa appears to be the odd man out as the Knicks strategize for the next phase of their competitive window. Financial constraints and a crowded frontcourt rotation have likely influenced the front office’s decision to let him walk in free agency.

For Achiuwa, the open market presents an opportunity to secure a larger role and potentially a multi-year deal elsewhere — a well-earned next chapter for a player who maximized his moment in New York.

As the Knicks gear up for an ambitious offseason, their parting with Achiuwa marks another step in Leon Rose’s ongoing transformation of the franchise — one aimed at turning playoff potential into championship reality.

Former Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau writes an emotional letter in the New York Times, thanking New York City and its fans for the support during his tenure. No mention of owner James Dolan.

In a touching gesture of appreciation, Tom Thibodeau, recently dismissed as head coach of the New York Knicks, took out a full-page ad in the New York Times on Wednesday. The message was a heartfelt thank-you letter addressed to “the best city in the world with the best fans in the world.”

Calling the opportunity to coach the Knicks his “dream job,” Thibodeau expressed sincere gratitude to the players, coaching staff, and fans, all of whom he said welcomed him warmly from the very first day.

Notably, while Thibodeau praised “everyone who makes this franchise special,” he did not mention team owner James Dolan or any front office executives by name, a detail highlighted by the New York Post.

During Thibodeau’s four-year stint, the Knicks compiled a 226-174 record, reached the playoffs four times, and returned to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years — a milestone he proudly referenced in his letter.

The franchise is currently exploring its next move, with speculation surrounding a potential inquiry into Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd. Meanwhile, Thibodeau, still under contract and reportedly owed a significant sum, was clearly willing to invest in a public goodbye to a city that meant so much to him.

Stephen A. Smith urges the Knicks to consider Mark Jackson as their next head coach, crediting him with laying the foundation for the Warriors dynasty. Could the New York native return home?

As the New York Knicks continue their high-stakes search for a new head coach following the shocking dismissal of Tom Thibodeau, one passionate voice has offered a compelling suggestion: Mark Jackson.

ESPN personality and lifelong Knicks fan Stephen A. Smith threw his support behind Jackson during a recent episode of First Take. Despite being out of coaching for a decade, Smith believes Jackson is more than deserving of another opportunity — especially in New York, where his basketball journey began.

“I’m always going to bring up Mark Jackson’s name,” Smith said. “He hasn’t coached in 10 years, but people forget — he was the architect of what became the Golden State Warriors dynasty. Steve Kerr took over, yes, but he piggybacked off the culture and team Jackson built.”

Jackson’s resume speaks volumes: NBA Rookie of the Year, standout player at Bishop Loughlin and St. John’s, and a revered voice in broadcasting. But beyond the accolades, it’s his deep-rooted connection to the city that stands out.

“Mark Jackson understands New York,” Smith added. “He played here. He feels the heartbeat of the city. He could bring that passion, that intensity, and that understanding back to the Garden.”

As the Knicks weigh their options, the possibility of bringing back a hometown hero with unfinished business in coaching could be exactly the emotional spark the franchise needs.