Last summer, the New York Knicks traded for Karl-Anthony Towns. Yet, in that trade, they lost some of their frontcourt depth. With Mitchell Robinson battling injuries, they tried throughout the season to find an insurance policy and an alternative for Robinson. Now, we find out that they almost got a quality player to fill that role. However, a legendary Greek coach called Daniel Theis, and the Knicks were left without their insurance policy.
Greek Coach Stole a Big Man the New York Knicks Wanted
The big man from Germany spent eight seasons in the NBA, playing for six different teams. Now, while he might not have helped the Knicks reach the Finals or win the title last season, he would have added depth. Speaking with EuroHoops, Theis revealed he had an offer after the deadline to join the Knicks.
“Before coming to Europe, I had an offer from the Knicks. Mitchell Robinson was coming back from injury. I spoke with Thibodeau, and he told me I would be insurance for them if Robinson couldn’t play. I thought, if I stay until the end of the season and don’t play, what chances will I have in the summer? So I said, ‘I’m going to Europe. If I play well, I’ll have better chances. Maybe I wouldn’t have come to Europe if Spanoulis hadn’t called me. I didn’t just look at the money, but the school, the life, everything.”
Theis spoke highly of Vassilis Spanoulis, and explained their connection. The former Greek professional player is now the coach for AS Monaco of the French LNB Elite and the EuroLeague. That offer was the reason the Knicks didn’t get Theis, who could have been their Robinson alternative in the playoffs.
Daniel Theis Could Have Helped the Knicks
In his last season with the New Orleans Pelicans, Theis averaged 4.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game in 16 minutes of action. After a trade sent him to the Oklahoma City Thunder, he was bought out. As a free agent, he had options, one of which was the Knicks. But, he chose to go to Europe and get some playing time so he can be ready for the summer when Germany competes at the EuroBasket.
In Europe, Theis quickly became one of the best big men in the EuroLeague. In eight games, he averaged 13.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks. He shot 57.9% from the floor, 41.7% from three-point range (albeit on only 1.5 attempts), and 78% from the free throw line. That last stat might be the most important one. Robinson was often taken out of the game by opposing teams, who sent him to the free-throw line.
In Monaco, Theis played with another former NBA player, Mike James. They developed great pick-and-roll chemistry. Now imagine him playing alongside Jalen Brunson.
Mike James and Daniel Theis in action
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Knicks Trusting European Big Men
This summer, the Knicks signed another top European big man, Guerschon Yabusele, to serve as their backup center. The Frenchman made a name for himself at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Then, last season, he seized the opportunity playing for the Philadelphia 76ers. With Joel Embiid missing time due to injuries, Yabusele averaged 11 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game in 27 minutes of action. The Knicks will be happy to have him as they are trying to make the Finals and compete for a championship.
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