Kevin McCullar's Knicks Future Looks Uncertain After Quiet Offseason
The New York Knicks are the only team in the NBA without a single player on a two-way contract, and that silence speaks volumes about Kevin McCullar Jr.'s potential return. After a season that showed real promise, the young wing's path back to the defending champions is suddenly unclear.
McCullar, drafted 56th overall two summers ago, spent last season on a two-way deal with New York. But as the team gears up to defend its title, the front office's quiet approach to his future suggests a shift in priorities. The Knicks' Summer League roster in Las Vegas notably lacked McCullar, along with fellow two-way player Trey Jemison III, who recently signed with the Toronto Raptors. That move feels like a warning sign for McCullar's own prospects.
What Happened to McCullar This Summer?
McCullar missed the Knicks' Summer League action entirely, just as he did two years ago while recovering from a knee injury sustained at Kansas. That injury, a bone bruise in his right knee, derailed his senior season with the Jayhawks, where he was averaging a career-best 18.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. It also caused him to slide in the draft and miss training camp. While there's no official word on a new injury, his health history raises questions.
For context, Pacome Dadiet, another player from McCullar's draft class, did suit up for the Knicks in Las Vegas. That contrast only amplifies the uncertainty around McCullar's status.
Did McCullar Show Enough to Earn a Roster Spot?
Under new coach Mike Brown, who earned the nickname 'Mad Scientist' for his trust in young players, McCullar finally got a real chance. His breakout came two days after Christmas in Atlanta, where he logged a career-high 23 minutes, scoring 13 points with eight rebounds and two steals. He looked like a Josh Hart-in-training, a plug-and-play wing who could fit Brown's system.
But that promise didn't translate into consistent minutes. McCullar saw more than ten minutes of playing time only four more times the rest of the season. In 21 NBA games, he averaged just 2.4 points and 1.3 rebounds in 7.4 minutes, while shooting 33.3% from three (8 of 24). In the G League, he put up stronger numbers: 16.8 points and 6.2 assists per game, though his three-point shooting dipped to 29.9%.
Overall, McCullar's sophomore campaign was a step forward, but not a leap. For a team now focused on repeating as champions, that may not be enough.
What Are the Knicks' Options at Two-Way Contracts?
The Knicks are the only NBA team without a single player on a two-way deal. That vacancy offers a sliver of hope for McCullar's return. But the silence from the front office, combined with the team's championship aspirations, suggests they may look elsewhere for depth. Two-way contracts are typically used for developmental projects, and New York's window to win is now.
Could McCullar Still Return to New York?
It's possible, but the odds seem slim. The Knicks have a history of giving young players a chance under Brown, but the pressure to win now changes the calculus. McCullar's injury history and inconsistent NBA minutes make him a gamble, even for a team that values his grit and defensive potential. For now, the ball is in New York's court, and they're not showing their hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Kevin McCullar miss Summer League?
McCullar was absent from the Knicks' Summer League roster in Las Vegas, with no official explanation. His history of knee injuries, including a bone bruise that ended his senior season at Kansas, has fueled speculation about a possible new health issue.
What are McCullar's chances of making the Knicks' roster?
His chances are uncertain. The Knicks are the only NBA team without a two-way contract, which could open a spot for him. But the team's focus on defending its title may lead them to prioritize more experienced players.
How did McCullar perform in the G League last season?
In 14 games for the Westchester Knicks, McCullar averaged 16.8 points and 6.2 assists, though his three-point shooting was a concern at 29.9%. He also showed playmaking and rebounding skills that made him a potential rotation piece.
Photo: Sports Illustrated