Kemba Walker is planning to sign with the New York Knicks after reaching a buyout with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Kemba Walker Set to Join the New York Knicks
A whirlwind of an offseason may truly have a happy ending for Kemba Walker. The 6-foot guard flamed out with the Boston Celtics after signing a max contract in 2019, and was shipped to Oklahoma City in a salary dump. A buyout was inevitable, but landing with the New York Knicks may just be the situation the four-time NBA All-Star needs to rejuvenate his career.
Four-time All-Star guard Kemba Walker has agreed to a contract buyout with the Oklahoma City Thunder, and upon clearing waivers, plans to sign with the New York Knicks, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) August 4, 2021
Walker averaged 19.3 points and 4.9 assists per game in 43 games last season, a career-low for the former UConn standout. He’ll join a backcourt where he won’t have to do as much heavy lifting, and that should take a toll off him. Coming home should benefit both sides and it won’t just be a feel-good story, as the Knicks have aspirations to build on one of the more memorable seasons in recent memory.
What the Walker Signing Means for the Future
Bringing in Kemba Walker not only bolsters the backcourt, but it’s everything New York basketball fans could ask for. After striking out in the 2019 summer, Knicks management won’t complain about landing Walker on a team-friendly deal. Walker should slot right into the starting lineup, with the resurgent Derrick Rose, who also re-signed earlier this week, serving as a very potent backup.
Injuries sapped Walker’s run in Boston, so maintaining health will be the biggest concern. With Rose ready and fully capable, it’s a win-win for the Knicks’ immediate future. Walker’s influence and tutelage, as well as Rose’s, will be big for second-year guard Immanuel Quickley, who could very well be the Knicks starting point guard for years to come.
Main Photo: Embed from Getty Images
