Free Agent Forward Tosan Evbuomwan Agrees to Deal with the New York Knicks
The New York Knicks continue to shape their roster ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season, and their latest addition is a player who has already shown flashes of being a reliable contributor in the league. According to his agent George S. Langberg of GSL Sports Group, free agent forward Tosan Evbuomwan has agreed to a deal with the Knicks, as first reported by Hoopshype.
Evbuomwan, who spent the 2024-25 season with the Brooklyn Nets, averaged 9.5 points and 4.3 rebounds across 28 games, displaying both versatility and efficiency in limited minutes. Now, he will look to carve out a larger role in Madison Square Garden with a Knicks team eager to build on last season’s progress.
From Princeton to the NBA: Evbuomwan’s Journey
Evbuomwan’s story is one of persistence and resilience. The British-born forward made his name at Princeton University, where he developed into one of the Ivy League’s most dynamic players. Known for his high basketball IQ, defensive versatility, and ability to create offense, he was instrumental in Princeton’s NCAA Tournament runs, including their stunning Sweet 16 appearance in 2023.
Despite questions about how his game would translate to the NBA, Evbuomwan’s unique skill set earned him opportunities. After going undrafted, he signed with NBA teams for Summer League and G League stints before securing his breakthrough with the Brooklyn Nets. His development into a reliable rotation piece last season was a testament to his adaptability and work ethic.
Why the Knicks Moved for Him
The Knicks have been focused on bolstering their depth in the forward rotation, especially after dealing with injuries and inconsistencies throughout the 2024-25 campaign. Adding a versatile forward like Evbuomwan provides head coach Tom Thibodeau with more options on both ends of the floor.
Evbuomwan’s strengths include:
- Defensive versatility: At 6-foot-7, he has the size and athleticism to guard multiple positions, fitting into Thibodeau’s defensive schemes.
- Playmaking ability: Unlike many forwards, Evbuomwan has strong ball-handling skills and court vision, allowing him to facilitate offense in secondary actions.
- High efficiency: He shot over 46% from the field with the Nets, excelling in transition and around the rim.
With the Knicks emphasizing player development and complementary role players around their stars, Evbuomwan’s profile makes him an ideal fit.
The Knicks’ Current Roster Picture
The Knicks enter the new season with a core built around Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and OG Anunoby, while also boasting young contributors like Donte DiVincenzo and Mitchell Robinson.
However, the team’s playoff exit last spring highlighted the need for more depth at the forward spot, especially when injuries forced the Knicks to shuffle lineups. Evbuomwan’s arrival will help address that concern. While he’s unlikely to start, he projects as a valuable second-unit piece who can provide energy, defense, and scoring bursts.
For Evbuomwan, this is also an opportunity to establish himself in one of the league’s biggest markets. Playing at Madison Square Garden comes with both pressure and exposure, and a strong showing could elevate his standing within the NBA.
Reaction From Around the League
The news of Evbuomwan’s deal quickly drew reactions from fans and analysts alike. Knicks supporters praised the move as a low-risk, high-reward signing.
“Smart pickup — Tosan’s exactly the kind of role player we need. Can defend, can pass, plays hard every night,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Analysts also noted how Evbuomwan’s skill set aligns with the Knicks’ identity. His ability to defend multiple positions and contribute offensively without dominating the ball fits perfectly alongside stars like Brunson and Randle.
A Look Back at His Time With the Nets
While Evbuomwan’s averages with the Nets — 9.5 points and 4.3 rebounds — may not jump off the page, they become more impressive when considering his role. He often came off the bench, playing around 20 minutes per game, and still managed to make a consistent impact.
He had several standout performances, including a 19-point outing against the Miami Heat and a game where he grabbed 10 rebounds versus the Milwaukee Bucks. These flashes showed his potential to step into bigger roles when called upon.
The Nets’ roster shuffle and focus on youth development ultimately left Evbuomwan looking for a new opportunity, which the Knicks have now provided.
The Bigger Picture for Evbuomwan
At just 24 years old, Evbuomwan is still at the beginning of his NBA journey. His signing with the Knicks signals that teams see long-term potential in his game. If he can continue to refine his shooting and expand his offensive repertoire, he has the chance to become more than just a role player — perhaps even a starting-caliber forward in the years ahead.
His path also serves as an inspiration for international players and those from non-traditional basketball powerhouses. Coming from Newcastle, England, and rising through the Ivy League to the NBA, Evbuomwan’s story underscores how determination and adaptability can open doors in professional basketball.
Final Thoughts
Tosan Evbuomwan’s deal with the New York Knicks is more than just another free-agent signing — it’s a fresh chapter for both player and team. For the Knicks, it represents a smart, strategic move to strengthen their bench with a versatile forward. For Evbuomwan, it’s a chance to showcase his skills under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden and prove he belongs in the NBA for the long haul.
As the Knicks aim to build on their recent playoff runs and push toward title contention, every piece matters. And in Evbuomwan, they may have found a valuable one — a player ready to contribute now and grow into a bigger role in the seasons to come.
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