BREAKING: New York Knicks Agree to $200 Million Deal to Sign Recently-Waived Ex-76ers Big as Skilled Karl-Anthony Towns Backup Option
In a move that has sent shockwaves across the NBA landscape, the New York Knicks have agreed to a blockbuster $200 million deal to acquire a recently-waived former Philadelphia 76ers big man, immediately solidifying their frontcourt with a powerful new presence. This acquisition comes hot on the heels of the Knicks’ major offseason trade for Karl-Anthony Towns, who is expected to be the franchise’s centerpiece moving forward. Now, with this high-stakes deal, New York ensures that their star big man will have a skilled and experienced backup option to anchor the paint and stretch the floor — even in Towns’ absence.
The Player: A Redemption Arc for a Forgotten Giant
The player in question is Paul Reed, affectionately known across NBA circles as “BBall Paul.” Once a fan-favorite bench contributor in Philadelphia, Reed was waived earlier this offseason due to cap restructuring under the new CBA. Despite his relative underuse in Philly, Reed had carved out a reputation as an elite shot-blocker, relentless rebounder, and efficient rim-runner who showed flashes of offensive polish when given the opportunity.
Now, the 6’9” forward-center has been handed the largest opportunity of his career — a $200 million megadeal over five years, with incentives tied to performance and playoff milestones. The deal marks a stunning financial commitment for a player once viewed as a fringe starter, but Knicks executives insist the investment is as much about potential as it is about present value.
> “Paul Reed is exactly the type of two-way big we need behind Karl,” said Knicks GM Leon Rose during an emergency press conference at Madison Square Garden. “He plays with heart, energy, and toughness — everything New York stands for. We believe he’s ready to take the next step, and this deal shows our belief in that future.
Karl-Anthony Towns’ Arrival and the Need for Depth
The Knicks’ pursuit of Karl-Anthony Towns earlier this summer marked a transformative moment in their franchise direction. After years of building around Julius Randle and a revolving door of role players, the front office finally took the leap and acquired a bonafide All-NBA talent in Towns.
However, as Towns comes with a history of injuries, especially lingering lower-body issues, there was a clear and urgent need to bolster the backup frontcourt position. While Mitchell Robinson and Isaiah Hartenstein previously served that role, Robinson was included in the Towns deal, and Hartenstein recently signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency.
Enter Paul Reed — a defensive anchor who can play both the 4 and 5 positions, provide second-unit leadership, and hold down the fort if Towns is forced to miss extended time.
Why Reed? Knicks Betting on Fit and Upside
Many around the league are questioning the massive price tag tied to Reed’s deal, but Knicks brass are adamant that the fit justifies the gamble. Head coach Tom Thibodeau has long favored defense-first bigs who crash the boards and protect the rim — and Reed fits that mold perfectly.
“Coach Thibs loves guys who go 110% on every possession,” said Knicks assistant Rick Brunson. “Paul Reed gives you that. He might not be flashy, but he brings winning habits and defensive presence — and with the development staff we have, he’ll only get better offensively.
In his last full season with the 76ers, Reed averaged 7.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in just 18 minutes per game. Per 36 minutes, those numbers skyrocketed, with some analytics projecting him as one of the league’s most underutilized defensive assets. The Knicks are betting that in an expanded role, with more consistent minutes, Reed can become a key cog in a deep playoff run.
Knicks’ Frontcourt Now Among NBA’s Deepest
With this signing, the Knicks’ frontcourt depth now rivals any team in the league:
Karl-Anthony Towns: Stretch big with elite scoring and passing vision.
Paul Reed: Defensive specialist and energy player off the bench.
Jericho Sims: Young, athletic big man developing under Thibodeau.
Josh Hart and Precious Achiuwa: Versatile forwards capable of guarding multiple positions.
This versatility gives New York the flexibility to run small-ball lineups, twin-tower looks, or high-low post combos depending on matchups. With Reed on the roster, Towns can also be rested strategically, preserving his health for the playoffs without a major drop-off in paint production.
A Symbolic Move: Changing the Knicks Culture
Beyond the numbers, this deal represents a philosophical shift in how the Knicks view player development and long-term planning. In years past, New York often hoarded cap space for aging superstars or overpaid underwhelming veterans. Now, they’re investing early in a player like Reed, whose best basketball may still lie ahead.
“We’re no longer trying to be reactive,” said team president William Wesley. “This organization is building from within — with players who want to grind, defend, and represent this city with pride. Paul Reed is that guy.
Reed, in turn, expressed deep gratitude and determination.
> “I’ve been waiting my whole life for this kind of opportunity,” he said in a statement. “I want to make New York proud. I want to bring toughness, hustle, and championships to the Garden.
League Reactions: Shock, Skepticism, and Some Quiet Praise
While many analysts were stunned at the $200 million valuation, there are those around the league who see Reed’s signing as a strategic masterstroke.
NBA veteran Draymond Green tweeted, “Y’all laughed at Paul Reed? Watch what happens now that he’s unleashed.”
Others were more cautious, noting that Reed has never averaged more than 20 minutes per game over a season.
> “It’s a swing,” said ESPN’s Zach Lowe. “But the Knicks aren’t trying to be a 6th seed anymore. They want to contend. And that means having elite depth. This could be the next Aaron Gordon-type playoff impact story.
What Comes Next?
With Reed and Towns anchoring the frontcourt, and Jalen Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo forming the backcourt nucleus, the Knicks are quietly assembling a roster built for deep playoff success. Rumors continue to swirl around potential trades for wing scorers or another veteran presence, but for now, the front office has clearly planted their flag.
This move signals to the league — and to Knicks fans everywhere — that the era of hesitation is over. No more rebuilding. No more half-measures.
The New York Knicks are going all in.
And Paul Reed, once waived and overlooked, now holds a $200 million key to their championship dreams.
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