Knicks acquire club option for development center

While the New York Knicks are making great strides in building a team capable of competing for a championship next season, their smaller roster decisions will also have a significant impact. On Saturday, the Knicks opted to re-sign Jericho Sims’ contract through the 2024-25 season, as Stefan Bondy of the New York Post reported.

Jericho Sims’ role and future with the Knicks

Sims, who has a salary cap hit of $2.1 million next season, played a key role as a primary backup last season, averaging two points and 3.3 rebounds in 13 minutes per game in 45 appearances. At 26 years old next season, Sims remains a developmental project. While he could be viewed as a valuable rotation piece for other teams, the Knicks could also consider including him in a trade package, possibly the deal that brought Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets, to save on salary.

Financial strategy and contract extensions

Currently, the Knicks have not yet extended Isaiah Hartenstein’s contract as they face complex financial challenges. The front office is committed to staying under the $178 million cap and keeping their payroll on the second cap at $189.5 million. This would give them more salary flexibility, which is crucial for a potential extension of Hartenstein, who is set to make over $16.4 million in salary due to his Early Bird Rights.

Hartenstein’s uncertain future

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his contract situation, Hartenstein’s preference to stay with the Knicks is clear, especially after the signing of Bridges and the contract extension with OG Anunoby.

The challenge for the Knicks will be to offer a deal that can compete with what Hartenstein could find on the free agent market, thus ensuring they can retain his services without jeopardizing their salary cap strategy.