Projecting Knicks’ Depth Chart, Rotation After 2024 NBA Free Agency

Barring a philosophical change in approach from coach Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks might have more players than rotation spots.

Even running with a nine-man rotation will leave some capable contributors out in the cold. Three of those bench spots would go to Josh Hart, Donte DiVincenzo and probably Miles McBride (though there’s plenty congestion at point guard). A fourth would belong to whichever backup big New York signs to support oft-injured starter Mitchell Robinson.

You know who doesn’t get floor time in that scenario? Tyler Kolek, whom the Knicks traded up to get at No. 34, for one. He is one of the more polished prospects in this rookie class, and he looked the part at summer league. Still, if there are only nine openings, he’d have to unseat McBride to claim one.

That also excludes Cameron Payne, who’s just a single season removed from averaging double-digit points and 20-plus minutes. Rock-solid players are going to have sit out, though, barring some kind of consolidation deal.