Why Is the Knicks’ 2026 NBA Draft Important?
New York is coming off its first NBA championship since 1973. But the Knicks have a lot of roster work to do to put themselves in a position to repeat.
The Knicks have nine players under contract with a salary cap hit of $205.4 million. Jose Alvarado has a $4.5 million option, and his decision will play a significant role in the Knicks’ plans this offseason. If Alvardo opts in, it leaves the Knicks $3.5 million below the first apron and $16.5 million under the second apron.
Alvarado was a big addition at the trade deadline as the 28-year-old increased the Knicks’ depth at guard. Alvarado played an important role for the Knicks off the bench during the regular season and playoffs, taking over backup point guard duties when Miles McBride was injured or ineffective. The 6-foot point is key to the Knicks bench as he brings defensive pressure, pace disruption, and energy.
“If Alvarado opts in, the Knicks get a useful guard at a clean number and can focus their larger money decisions elsewhere,” Alexander Wilson of Empire Sports said about Alvarado’s decision. “If he opts out, Leon Rose has another bench slot to solve while already trying to keep the title group together.”
