The New York Knicks will be keeping a close eye on one of their prospects during the Summer League in Las Vegas. The Nigerian-born, 7-foot center James Nnaji made his unofficial debut for the Pride of New York in a Summer League matchup against Eastern Conference rivals, the Celtics. Nnaji is an interesting prospect who was signed to the Knicks two seasons ago, but has opted to play in Europe for Barcelona while he prepares for the rigorous demands of the NBA. His time has now come in the NBA, and the center has a lot of eyes on him, especially in New York.
The NBA Summer League gives fresh talent a chance to shine
The Summer League presents the NBA teams with an opportunity to gauge what their young prospects are capable of. Players like Cooper Flagg have the basketball world’s attention on them at the moment. The Knicks are looking to bring in whatever players they can, as they have no room left in their cap space and have had a vested interest in Nnaji for a few years now.
Bronny James is another player who has been capturing the attention of the NBA world during this Summer League. His defensive skills have been on display and have surprised most in the NBA, as we did not know he was capable of such great defensive coverage. Dylan Harper has also been showing why he was selected as the second overall pick in this year’s draft with some strong performances.
The New York Knicks have the world in their hands right now
James Nnaji is a promising talent who could be the next Patrick Ewing for the Knicks if managed properly. He was acquired by the Knicks as part of the deal that sent Karl Anthony-Towns to New York, but chose to stay in Spain for the past two seasons. It has been reported by the New York Post that Nnaji told Barcelona that he intends to pursue a career in the U.S. with the Knicks this year.
His first game was cut short by injury as he exited the game in the third quarter following only one bucket and a rebound in nine minutes of action. His agent, Gerard Raventos, told The Post:
“Hopefully, after [the Summer League], we can reach an agreement. That’s the plan, from both sides. It’s 50/50; it depends how he does. He’s coming in great shape. … Everything will be based on his performances in the Summer League.”
The New York Knicks have signed Mike Brown as their new head coach
The Knicks have finally ended their search for a new head coach following the shocking firing of Tom Thibodeau. The head coaches around the NBA are currently weighing their options as the salary cap has now been confirmed. They have signed former coach of the year, Mike Brown, after talks with several coaches. Knicks president Leon Rose said in a statement:
“Mike has coached on the biggest stages in our sport and brings championship pedigree to our organization. His experience leading the bench during the NBA Finals, winning four titles as an assistant coach, and his ability to grow and develop players will all help us as we aim to bring a championship to New York for our fans.”
Can new head coach Mike Brown bring the best out of James Nnaji?
The Summer League usually brings out the best in the young players entering the NBA. Even for those who are on the edges of their respective teams, rotations are putting in some impressive performances. The signing of Mike Brown is a step in the right direction for the Knicks, as they narrowly missed out on a Finals appearance last season and surely are aiming to keep up that positive momentum this season. Will Mike Brown be able to bring the best out of the 7-foot center, James Nnaji? We will have to wait to find out.
