Knicks

Biodata

History

Chen Xi's arrival and the 2022–23 season

The Knicks pursued Chen Xi as the player around whom they could build a contender. Their proposed deal committed a first overall pick, RJ Barrett, Mitchell Robinson, and two first-round picks; Chen accepted a move that would also return assets to his former team, the Oklahoma City Thunder 994 997. He arrived in New York to a large fan reception and made his Knicks debut against the Orlando Magic at Madison Square Garden 997 1006. His first basket for the team was a mid-range jumper 1007.

The new lineup included Derrick Rose, Jerami Grant, Joe Ingles, Andre Drummond, Obi Toppin, and Isaiah Hartenstein 1000 1006 1012. Chen became its primary scorer and organizer, but the offense often struggled when he rested: other players could move the ball without consistently creating a good shot 1013 1122. New York reached the playoffs and faced the Miami Heat and Milwaukee Bucks; a 131–121 win over Milwaukee tied their series at 1–1 1128 1158.

2023 offseason and the deeper roster

Seeking more help for Chen, the Knicks discussed roster needs with general manager Leon Rose, then traded Evan Fournier and Danilo Gallinari to Portland to clear cap space 1202 1204 1205. They added Paul George, Al Horford, Max Strus, and Steven Adams 1208 1211. George joined Chen as a second star, while the new wings and big men gave coach Tom Thibodeau more lineup options 1212 1216.

The revamped team opened the following season with six straight wins. Its victories over Boston, Dallas, and Minnesota were each by more than 20 points 1256. New York later added Chris Paul to organize the reserve unit; in his first Knicks game, he recorded eight points and six assists without a turnover 1423 1429.

Playing Style

• Chen-led offense — Chen creates his own shots and draws defensive attention that opens opportunities for teammates. His absence has repeatedly exposed a shortage of dependable shot creation 1013 1336.
• Four-forward lineups — Thibodeau uses Chen alongside versatile forwards, including George, Toppin, and Tari Eason, to combine switching defense with multiple offensive options 1046 1216 1229.
• Deep rotation — By the later season, the Knicks could draw on specialized contributors well beyond their two stars. Paul’s arrival particularly strengthened stretches when Chen was on the bench 1429 1456.
• Ball movement and screens — Pick-and-rolls, cuts, and extra passes regularly generate shots for players such as Strus and Toppin 1409 1457 1467.

Notable Players and Staff

Notable Results