The New York Knicks are two wins from their first NBA Finals appearance in 27 years after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Thursday, extending their winning streak to nine games. The run has pushed New York far beyond preseason expectations and shifted the mood around the franchise, with the team posting an NBA-record plus-212 point differential over a nine-game span in the regular season and playoffs.
While the Knicks’ postseason surge has energized the roster and fan base, it may also create financial complications. New York has 10 expiring contracts in different forms and is projected to sit near the bottom of the league in available cap space, with only $3.5 million remaining before the first apron, according to Spotrac. That could make it difficult to keep every contributor if their playoff performance raises their market value.
Jordan Clarkson is one player who could price himself out of New York. Signed to a minimum deal last offseason, the veteran guard was expected to strengthen the bench, but his regular season production dipped to a career-low 8.6 points per game. He has still made some impact in the playoffs with his physical play, rebounding, and ability to attack the basket. The extended postseason run marks his deepest playoff appearance since the 2017-18 season, and at age 34, he may seek a contract above the minimum.
Landry Shamet is another potential departure. His season began poorly, and he struggled early in the playoffs before earning more minutes against the 76ers when OG Anunoby was sidelined. That opportunity sparked a turnaround, including a 15-point outing and another game with 13 points on strong three-point shooting. He carried that momentum into the Eastern Conference Finals, where he hit three threes in Game 1 and contributed defensively in Game 2. His timely shooting and willingness to step up under pressure could attract offers from other teams that the Knicks may not match.
Jeremy Sochan appears likely to move on for a different reason. He joined New York in February after being released by the Spurs, but he never carved out a meaningful role. He played limited minutes late in the regular season and has largely been restricted to garbage time in the playoffs. With Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and Mitchell Robinson expected to remain key frontcourt pieces, and with other young bigs possibly returning as well, the Knicks may not have room for Sochan on the roster. His skill set could fit better elsewhere, where he might have a clearer path to minutes.
