The New York Knicks signed a contract on Friday night that guarantees backup center Jericho Sims a salary of $2.09 million for the 2024-25 season, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Jericho Sims could play a bigger role for the Knicks next season
Sims, 25, is entering his fourth NBA season where he could play the biggest role of his short career so far. With Isaiah Hartenstein now with the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Knicks are looking for ways to replace his performance, which hasn’t been easy.
Earlier this offseason, New York brought back Precious Achiuwa on a one-year, $6 million contract. He’s likely the right fit for the backup center position behind starter Mitchell Robinson, but his small size at just 6’1″ may make the team more inclined to give Sims more playing time due to his added size and athleticism. SNY’s Ian Begley also mentioned Julius Randle as a candidate for significant playing time as a backup center.
One advantage Sims has is that he has experience as a starter alongside Jalen Brunson. Although he won’t start for the Knicks in 2024, he could get a lot of playing time and make a big impact with several of the starters. In his first three seasons, Sims has made 32 total starts for New York, averaging 4.8 points and 6.2 rebounds in those games. His inability to clear the court is an issue the Knicks will have to work around, but he has shown the ability to effectively switch to smaller, faster players on the defensive side of the court.
The Knicks could look elsewhere for a replacement center
It’s still unclear what exact role Sims will play next season. It’s also unclear if the Knicks still intend to sign a center via trade or free agency, with just over a month left in the offseason. They’re rumored to be interested in players like Walker Kessler and Omer Yurtseven, but haven’t had any serious talks about a deal yet.
Still, Sims could play a big role in 2024, and if he can make a big jump in his play during the regular season, the Knicks may finally have an answer at the backup center position.
