The New York Knicks have a plethora of things to work on after their best postseason run in 25 years.
While many expected the Knicks to reach at least the 2025 NBA Finals, the team were handed a 4-2 Eastern Conference Finals loss by the Indiana Pacers.
As a result, the team’s journey came to an end. Although coach Tom Thibodeau became the bearer of blame for the organization and ended up being fired, he alone wasn’t at fault.
Either way, fans expect the franchise to make a stunning comeback next season. However, it feels like the Knicks will attempt this without veteran guard Cameron Payne on the roster.
The Knicks may not have won an NBA Championship since 1973, but playing for the franchise still remains a dream for many.
After all, the experience of being in Madison Square Garden and playing basketball in front of thousands of passionate fans is no small deal.
Veteran guard Cam Payne earned that opportunity during the 2024-25 NBA season. The 30-year-old recently shared an Instagram message to his fans following the Knicks’ playoff exit.
“Year 10!! Didn’t end how we wanted but MAN we had a great run! Never thought I’d be playing in the Garden for the Knicks in my career but the world works in mysterious ways,” Payne wrote.
He added: “I couldn’t be more grateful to be on this team with this group of guys! One of the best fans and best cities I’ve been a part of! Thank you Knicks Fans it was rocking all year.”
Payne may have spent just a single season with the Knicks, but he seemed extremely grateful to be a part of the iconic NBA franchise.
In his sole season with the team, Payne averaged 6.9 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game in 72 appearances. He did so while averaging 15.1 minutes per game.
However, Payne’s playing time was drastically reduced to just 7.3 minutes per game come playoff time. Evidently, he averaged a much worse 2.1 points, 0.6 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game in the postseason.
As for what’s next for him, Payne’s one-year, $3.0 million deal has expired as he is set to become an unrestricted free agent. Considering his playing time issue might be solved now that coach Thibodeau was fired, Payne could return to the Knicks on another deal.
Otherwise, Payne will likely find a new home sooner rather than later, as he is still an excellent backup guard.
