On Tuesday, the New York Knicks announced the re-signing of free agent big man Precious Achiuwa. According to ESPN senior insider Adrian Wojnarowski, Achiuwa is returning on a one-year, $6 million contract.
Selected 20th overall in the 2020 NBA Draft, Achiuwa was traded to the Knicks last December along with OG Anunoby and Malachi Flynn. In 49 games with the Knicks, he averaged 7.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game.
Due to a crowded center position, Achiuwa seemed to be the odd man out entering the offseason. However, his return might have been planned all along.
The Knicks wanted to bring back Isaiah Hartenstein, who ended up signing a three-year, $87 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder. If Hartenstein had stayed, Achiuwa might have had to find another team or accept a minor role. The Knicks could have also considered trading Mitchell Robinson if Hartenstein re-signed.
In an ego-less locker room, they might have co-existed peacefully. However, Robinson has expressed a desire to showcase more of his skills beyond his shot-blocking, as he’s averaged 1.9 blocks per game in his career. The 26-year-old has also sought to prove his offensive capabilities, largely playing a rim-running role so far.
Given these dynamics, it made sense for Achiuwa to remain unsigned while coming off one of his better seasons, unless the Knicks found a different backup center.
Though undersized for the center position at 6-foot-8, Achiuwa plays with remarkable heart and fluidity, making him a valuable rotational piece. While he may not become the next Hakeem Olajuwon, he can excel in his role, similar to Josh Hart, whose motor and impact often exceed his skill level.
