The New York Knicks eye free agency move for Karl-Anthony Towns’ ex-teammate they failed to get last season

The New York Knicks have two main offseason priorities: finding a replacement for head coach Tom Thibodeau and upgrading their roster. The franchise has expressed interest in South Carolina's Dawn Staley for the coaching vacancy.

Despite the ongoing coaching search, the Knicks remain active in player acquisition. After signing undrafted rookie Dink Pate to an Exhibit 10 contract, the team is now focusing on veteran talent. Knicks reporter Ian Begley revealed mutual interest existed between the Knicks and veteran guard Tyus Jones last season, with Jones even willing to take a pay cut to join New York. However, Jones ultimately chose Phoenix, where he averaged 10.2 points, 5.3 assists, and 2.4 rebounds while shooting 41.4% from three-point range.

Following Phoenix's disappointing season and early playoff exit, Jones is back on the market. His proven ability to run an offense and hit clutch three-pointers makes him an attractive option for contending teams seeking depth. Beyond being a quality backup for Jalen Brunson, Jones brings experience and established chemistry with Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns from their time together in Minnesota (2015-2019). Their previous partnership could lead to immediate on-court adjustment, as Jones excels at finding big men and Towns' improved three-point shooting creates spacing for effective pick-and-rolls.

The financial aspect also makes Jones attractive for the cap-strapped Knicks. New York can offer him a veteran minimum contract, fitting within their current salary constraints without sacrificing future flexibility. Begley noted the Knicks have tools like a $5 million exception and the veteran's minimum exception to pursue free agents like Jones. The Knicks must also address their own free agents, including Delon Wright, Precious Achiuwa, Landry Shamet, and Cam Payne.