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The New York Knicks have added depth to their roster with the free-agent signing of forward/centre Guerschon Yabusele, a move that strengthens their bench as they prepare for another deep playoff run. Yabusele is coming off a career-best season with the Philadelphia 76ers and brings a unique blend of versatility, experience, and scoring to a Knicks team looking to build on last season’s appearance in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Originally drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2016, Yabusele’s first stint in the NBA was underwhelming. He spent two seasons with limited minutes in Boston before heading overseas, where he rebuilt his game. His time abroad paid off, and after five years away from the NBA, he returned to the league last season with the 76ers. There, he averaged 11.0 points and 5.6 rebounds in 70 games, starting in 43 of them and showing clear growth and maturity in his game.
His performance caught the attention of analysts, including Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale, who highlighted Yabusele’s unlikely resurgence. Favale noted that while his two-year deal with the Knicks may not reflect a superstar’s price tag, the move signals that New York sees serious value in his contributions, especially considering how much their bench unit struggled last season.
For the Knicks, Yabusele’s arrival is timely. The starting lineup has proven it can compete with the best teams in the league, but their lack of consistent production from the second unit was a noticeable gap during last season’s playoff run. Yabusele offers an immediate solution with his ability to play both forward and centre, stretch the floor, and contribute on both ends. Even if he doesn’t fully replicate his Philadelphia form, his presence alone gives New York more flexibility and reliability off the bench.
At 29 years old, Yabusele is entering what many consider the prime years for a professional basketball player. If he continues the momentum from last season, his addition could be one of the most underrated moves of the NBA offseason. With championship aspirations in sight, the Knicks now have another valuable piece in place.