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Knicks could target 7-foot-5 defensive standout after missing out on Moussa Cisse

Knicks Could Target 7-Foot-5 Defensive Standout After Missing Out on Moussa Cisse
Knicks Could Target 7-Foot-5 Defensive Standout After Missing Out on Moussa Cisse

New York may have found an intriguing alternative at NBA Summer League after the Mavericks matched the Knicks' offer sheet for center Moussa Cisse.

The New York Knicks are still searching for additional depth at center after failing to land Moussa Cisse in free agency. The organization signed the young big man to a two-year offer sheet, but the Dallas Mavericks exercised their right to match the contract and retain him. That setback may have opened the door for another intriguing option who impressed during NBA Summer League.

One player who caught attention in Las Vegas was Jamarion Sharp, who suited up for the Toronto Raptors during Summer League. Standing an incredible 7-foot-5, Sharp immediately became one of the most physically imposing players in the tournament. His combination of size and defensive instincts could make him an appealing developmental addition for New York.

       

The Knicks currently have Karl-Anthony Towns and Andre Drummond as their primary centers, but the roster could still benefit from another interior presence. Even if that player initially occupies a two-way contract, adding depth at the position would provide valuable insurance over the course of a long NBA season.

Sharp's value extends well beyond his extraordinary height. He has steadily developed into one of the G League's premier defensive players, using his length to protect the rim and alter shots. His ability to impact games without needing the ball in his hands is exactly the type of skill many NBA teams look for in reserve centers.

The 2025-26 G League season was a breakout campaign for Sharp. Playing for the Texas Legends, the Dallas Mavericks' G League affiliate, he earned Defensive Player of the Year honors while also being selected to the All-Defensive First Team. Across 39 games, he averaged 7.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.9 blocks per contest.

While his Summer League statistics were not overwhelming, Sharp consistently made his presence felt whenever he stepped onto the floor. In four appearances with Toronto, he averaged 7.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.8 blocks in just 16.4 minutes per game. He also finished an impressive 73.3 percent of his field-goal attempts.

Sharp is not viewed as the same caliber of prospect as Moussa Cisse, but he offers a different developmental opportunity. His elite length allows him to influence games defensively even in limited minutes, giving coaches flexibility in certain matchups. With additional development, he could eventually earn a larger role at the NBA level.

For New York, a two-way contract would represent a low-risk investment with potentially meaningful upside. The Knicks have consistently emphasized defense and rebounding under their current roster construction, two areas where Sharp has already demonstrated considerable promise throughout his professional career.

 
Knicks Could Target 7-Foot-5 Defensive Standout After Missing Out on Moussa Cisse
New York may have found an intriguing alternative at NBA Summer League after the Mavericks matched the Knicks' offer sheet for center Moussa Cisse.

Toronto's decision to feature Sharp during Summer League also allowed other organizations to closely evaluate his progress. The Raptors showcased a player capable of protecting the rim, finishing efficiently around the basket and providing immediate size off the bench. Those traits are increasingly valuable in today's NBA, particularly for teams seeking affordable frontcourt depth.

If the Knicks remain committed to strengthening their center rotation, Jamarion Sharp could emerge as a logical target following Summer League. Although he would likely begin on a two-way contract, his defensive production, rebounding ability and rare physical profile make him an intriguing long-term project who could eventually provide valuable minutes when New York needs frontcourt reinforcement.

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