Miles McBride of New York Knicks handles the ball against Eric Gordon #23 of Philadelphia 76ers (Image by Francois Nel/Getty Images) The New York Knicks are projected to pursue veteran forward Georges Niang through the 2026 buyout market instead of a trade. The move is tied to the team’s need for consistent shooting behind Jalen Brunson as the regular season moves toward the playoffs.Niang was waived by the Memphis Grizzlies after being included in the Eric Gordon-Jaren Jackson Jr. deal. He has not played during the 2025-26 season while recovering from offseason foot surgery, but his shooting history and playoff experience make him a realistic option for teams trying to compete immediately.
How the Georges Niang signing would work for New York
Georges Niang is currently a free agent and can sign with any team once he clears waivers and passes a physical. The Knicks are below the second apron, have an open roster spot, and enough flexibility to take on his $8.2 million expiring salary.There are no trade assets involved. Memphis moved on from Niang to complete its roster changes, and New York would simply use an open spot to add a veteran who has appeared in 56 playoff games and shot 39.9% from three over his career.
Why the New York Knicks are interested
New York’s bench has struggled to produce points and reliable three-point shooting this season. Niang, a 6-foot-8 stretch forward, fits a clear need. He can space the floor for Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, move without the ball, and keep the offense organized when starters sit.
Knicks-relevant context (roster-accurate)
As of February 2026, the Knicks’ core includes: • Backcourt: Jalen Brunson, Miles McBride, Landry Shamet, Jordan Clarkson, Tyler Kolek, Jose Alvarado. • Wings: OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, Kevin McCullar Jr., Dillon Jones. • Frontcourt: Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, Ariel Hukporti, Trey Jemison, Pacome Dadiet, Mohamed Diawara.Niang would add depth rather than replace anyone. His shooting gives coach Tom Thibodeau another lineup option, especially in tighter games.
Stat snapshot: New York Knicks bench vs Georges Niang
Cleveland Cavaliers Georges Niang (Image via Getty)
MetricKnicks bench (2025-26)Georges Niang (career) Bench scoring rank 27th in PPG (≈31.2 per game) N/A (individual) Three-point % (team) Around league-average (≈35–36%) 39.9% on 3.4 attempts per game Bench three-point volume Low-volume, inconsistent spacing Career 3-point rate: 39.9% over 8 seasons Playoff experience Several core players, but bench lacks shooters 56 playoff games, including deep runs with Jazz, 76ers, Cavs, HawksHis shooting would address a second unit that often struggles to create space when Brunson is off the floor.
What the move means for Georges Niang
The Knicks offer a competitive environment and a defined role. Playing next to Brunson gives Niang steady catch-and-shoot chances, and joining a contender is preferable to signing with a rebuilding team.Profile: • Age: 32 (born July 1993) • Position: Stretch four / small-ball five • Contract: $8.2 million expiringThe deal also allows him to rebuild value before free agency.
Benefits and risks
Pros for the New York Knicks
• Reliable three-point shooting • Expiring contract with little long-term risk • Playoff experience • More lineup flexibility in the frontcourt
Cons
• Recovering from foot surgery with no clear return date • Not a strong defender • Could reduce minutes for younger forwardsFor Niang, the main advantage is joining a contender with a clear role. The risk is limited playing time if he is not fully healthy, along with no guaranteed contract beyond this season.
Fit next to Brunson
Player3-Point5 (career)Usage styleFit with Brunson Georges Niang 39.9% on 3.4 attempts per game Off-ball mover, corner threat Strong catch-and-shoot option in pick-and-roll lineups Landry Shamet ~38-39% career from three Spot-up shooter Similar role, but Niang provides more size Jordan Clarkson Lower three-point %, higher usage Secondary creator Does not provide the same spacingBrunson regularly draws extra defenders in pick-and-roll situations. A forward who can shoot from the perimeter makes those rotations harder for defenses.
Who gains more?
If Niang is healthy in time for the postseason, the Knicks add an experienced shooter without giving up players or draft capital. Niang joins a team competing in the Eastern Conference playoff race. The larger impact, however, would be on New York’s depth.Also read: NBA trade rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could acquire $6 million Brooklyn Nets star to play Alongside Luka Doncic and improve championship oddsThe Knicks are in position to sign Georges Niang through the buyout market and add shooting without changing the current roster. If he returns before the playoffs, the signing could strengthen the bench and improve lineup balance heading into the postseason.