Nickel and Knicks expected to reach deal despite unsigned status

Rookie Tyler Nickel remains unsigned by New York days before training camp, though The Athletic's James L. Edwards III reports the two sides are still expected to eventually reach a deal.

Edwards notes a court ruling restoring Nickel's college eligibility gives the No. 47 pick unusual leverage, since he could reportedly earn more in NIL money at Vanderbilt than on a two-way contract worth a reported $1 to $1.4 million.

He speculated the Knicks might need to open a standard roster spot via trade, naming Pacôme Dadiet and Miles McBride as possibilities while considering a McBride move before the season unlikely.

Edwards also suggested a trade becomes more worth watching if New York decides Nickel isn't worth clearing that spot for. The Knicks are separately sorting a crowded frontcourt battle involving James Wiseman, Drew Eubanks, Bruce Brown, John Konchar and Ochai Agbaji.