New York, July 31, 2024 — The New York Knicks have secured the services of backup big man Precious Achiuwa for another season, announcing his re-signing on Tuesday. The deal, first reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, is valued at $6 million for one year. Notably, Achiuwa waived his no-trade clause, indicating the potential for his role as a trade asset leading up to the February trade deadline. According to SNY’s Ian Begley, Achiuwa will be trade-eligible by December 15.
Achiuwa’s $6 million salary, when combined with that of Miles McBride ($4.7 million) or another player signed using the Knicks’ $5.2 million taxpayer midlevel exception, positions the team to potentially acquire a player in the $11 to $12 million salary range. This opens up possibilities for bringing in veteran centers like Orlando Magic’s Mo Wagner ($11 million), Los Angeles Clippers’ Ivica Zubac ($11.7 million), Portland Trail Blazers’ Robert Williams III ($12.4 million), or Houston Rockets’ Steven Adams ($12.6 million).
Achiuwa joined the Knicks as part of the trade involving OG Anunoby in December and quickly proved to be more than just a secondary piece. His impact was particularly felt when the Knicks lost three-time All-Star forward Julius Randle to a shoulder injury in late January. Throughout the season, Achiuwa’s performance demonstrated his value to the team.
In 49 games, including 18 starts, the 24-year-old Achiuwa averaged 7.6 points on 52.5% field goal shooting, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.1 assists over 24.2 minutes per game. During the Knicks’ playoff run, he continued to contribute, posting averages of 5.2 points on 48.8% shooting, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 20.5 minutes across nine games.
A native of Nigeria, Achiuwa’s journey brought him to high school basketball in the Bronx, solidifying a connection with the New York area. His return to the Knicks’ frontcourt is timely, particularly following the departure of Isaiah Hartenstein.
Mitchell Robinson is slated to start at center, with Achiuwa, Jericho Sims, and rookie Ariel Hukporti, who is on a two-way contract, expected to provide depth in the rotation. Achiuwa’s versatility and energy will be pivotal in maintaining the Knicks’ competitiveness in the paint.
As the Knicks continue to refine their roster, they still have two open spots and are $7.6 million under the second apron, as noted by ESPN’s front office insider Bobby Marks. This financial flexibility allows the Knicks to explore further enhancements to their lineup as they aim for a deeper playoff run in the upcoming season.
Achiuwa’s re-signing not only solidifies the Knicks’ frontcourt but also provides the team with strategic options moving forward. His development and contributions will be closely watched as the Knicks navigate the season with aspirations of advancing further in the postseason.