The New York Knicks have yet to sign rookie Tyler Nickel, but the expectation around the league is that the two sides will ultimately reach an agreement.
Nickel joined the Knicks organization after New York used the No. 47 overall pick on the former Vanderbilt standout, but there were questions about whether or not the sharpshooter would eventually join the NBA roster.
On Wednesday, The Athletic’s James L. Edwards III reported that while Nickel’s status remains unresolved ahead of training camp, it’s
likely he ends up sitting on the Knicks’ bench and getting minutes this season after eventually inking a deal in the next few days or weeks.
“From everything I’ve heard from talking to people throughout the league, Nickel and the Knicks are expected to reach some kind of contract agreement,” Edwards wrote.
What kind of contract Nickel receives, however, is less certain. Edwards noted that Nickel could make more through NIL by returning to college than on a two-way contract with New York, with early-summer reports of a possible $1-to-$1.4 million NIL deal waiting for him if he returns. A federal court ruling granted Nickel and a few other young men a fifth year of eligibility, so that door is wide open.
The situation could potentially explain New York’s roster construction to date, with open spots and a bunch of players in tryout deals heading into preseason. All we know is that New York is expected to add one more player on a standard contract before the season while surely avoiding the second apron.
“Could the Knicks be trying to make a trade to open up a roster spot to give Nickel a standard deal?” Edwards wrote. “The way this situation has played out, it sort of feels that way.”
Edwards identified Pacôme Dadiet and Miles McBride as logical trade possibilities if New York chooses that route, although he is skeptical McBride would be moved before the season.
While Nickel remains unsigned, Edwards’ reporting makes it very clear the expectation is that the Knicks and their second-round pick eventually reach an agreement. For now, we wait.
