Ex-Sixers Standout Explains Fit With New York Knicks

Guerschon Yabusele expressed dissatisfaction with the contract offer he received from the Philadelphia 76ers during free agency, feeling it was so low that it signaled the team didn't genuinely want him back. He stated the offer was "really, really low" and made him feel like the 76ers weren't interested in retaining him, though he clarified he held no hard feelings.

Yabusele surprised the NBA, particularly the 76ers, by signing with the New York Knicks instead. This move occurred despite prior speculation linking him to the San Antonio Spurs leading up to free agency. While the 76ers' offer influenced his departure, Yabusele emphasized that the Knicks' team identity strongly appealed to him, viewing their playing style as a match for his own "DNA" of fighting hard and embracing an underdog mentality. He praised the team's cohesion, positive atmosphere, and the franchise's storied history, considering New York a great opportunity where he could be helpful. The financial improvement with the Knicks was an added bonus.

During the previous season with the 76ers, Yabusele was seen as a key piece, expected to be the backup power forward. However, due to numerous team injuries, notably to Joel Embiid and Andre Drummond, his role expanded significantly. He started 43 out of 70 games and often played center. He posted solid personal statistics, averaging 11 points (shooting 50% from the field and 38% from three-point range), 6 rebounds, and 2 assists per game.

Despite Yabusele's individual performance, the injury-plagued 76ers struggled overall, finishing with the fifth-best NBA draft lottery odds. While there seemed to be initial plans from the 76ers' side to bring him back for another season to try and keep the core together, Yabusele ultimately decided to leave for the Knicks.