Fresh off winning the 2026 NBA championship, the New York Knicks are entering the offseason with a clear objective: strengthen their roster without disrupting the chemistry that carried them to the title. Although the team still has three open roster spots, reports suggest the front office is focused on adding depth rather than making another headline-grabbing acquisition.
One name that recently surfaced in speculation was veteran forward DeMar DeRozan. After being waived by the Sacramento Kings before his full salary for the 2026-27 season became guaranteed, the six-time All-Star entered free agency as one of the most accomplished players available.
Because Sacramento remains responsible for a significant portion of DeRozan’s salary, some observers believed he might consider signing with a championship contender on a minimum contract. The reigning champion Knicks naturally became one of the teams mentioned in those discussions.
However, according to SNY Knicks insider Ian Begley, there is little reason to expect a partnership between New York and DeRozan. He indicated that neither side appears to have meaningful interest, effectively cooling speculation surrounding the veteran scorer’s potential move to Madison Square Garden.
1. Insider Dismisses DeRozan Rumors
Begley was direct when addressing the possibility of DeRozan joining the Knicks, saying there is currently no indication that negotiations are taking place. From his perspective, both the organization and the player appear to be looking in different directions.
The veteran insider also noted that DeRozan has reportedly drawn interest from other teams, including the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Clippers. Those destinations may offer situations that better match both the veteran’s playing style and his expectations for a meaningful role.
For New York, the lack of reported interest suggests that the front office remains committed to preserving the roster identity that led to last season’s championship. Rather than making a significant addition simply because a recognizable name is available, the Knicks appear determined to prioritize roster fit.
That measured approach has become a defining characteristic of the organization’s recent success. Instead of chasing every available star, New York has emphasized continuity and complementary pieces around its established core.
2. Questions About On-Court Fit
While DeRozan remains one of the league’s most accomplished offensive players, questions persist about how smoothly his game would translate to New York’s current system. Throughout his career, he has thrived with the ball in his hands, creating offense through mid-range scoring and isolation play.
Some observers suggested DeRozan could fill the role of instant offense off the bench, similar to the contributions Jordan Clarkson provided during portions of the championship season. His ability to create his own shot would undoubtedly strengthen the second unit.
However, there are notable differences between the two players. Clarkson accepted a reduced role as the Knicks advanced deeper into the postseason, while DeRozan has spent nearly his entire NBA career serving as one of his team’s primary offensive options.
In addition, New York’s offense places a strong emphasis on spacing and ball movement. Although DeRozan remains an efficient scorer, his limited three-point shooting could make him a less natural fit within the offensive structure that proved successful throughout the championship run.
3. Knicks Focus on Remaining Needs
Rather than pursuing another high-profile scorer, the Knicks appear focused on addressing more practical roster concerns before the start of the new season. According to Begley, adding depth at center has emerged as one of the organization’s top priorities.
With several frontcourt changes occurring during the offseason, New York is believed to be searching for a dependable third-string center capable of providing quality minutes when needed. Injuries and the demands of a long regular season have reinforced the importance of frontcourt depth.
Although the free-agent market offers relatively few proven options, several experienced big men remain available. Players such as Nick Richards, Drew Eubanks, and Xavier Tillman have all been mentioned as possible candidates who could strengthen the Knicks’ interior rotation without requiring a significant financial commitment.
As the defending champions prepare for the 2026-27 campaign, every roster decision carries added importance. Instead of pursuing splashy signings, New York appears intent on making targeted additions that preserve its championship identity while improving overall depth.