Precious Achiuwa Discusses Knicks Regret While Embracing Freedom with Kings
Precious Achiuwa recently shared insights on his transition to the Sacramento Kings, highlighting his newfound role. He expressed concerns about the previous season with the Knicks, particularly regarding the team’s bench performance.
Judging the Knicks’ Bench Performance
Achiuwa believes it is unfair to label the Knicks’ bench as ineffective. He emphasized, “You could never say the bench is not good if you don’t play the bench.” This statement reflects his view on how limited opportunities can skew perceptions of player effectiveness.
Achiuwa’s Journey and Contributions
The 26-year-old forward joined the Knicks through a trade in 2023 and quickly became an essential part of the team’s lineup. Following a shoulder injury to star player Julius Randle, Achiuwa stepped up, showcasing his skills on the court. His remarkable performance during a 17-game stretch saw him averaging 12.7 points and 9.8 rebounds over 37 minutes per game.
Contract and Challenges in New York
In the summer of 2024, Achiuwa re-signed with the Knicks for $6 million. His contributions initially appeared promising, but he encountered challenges with a hamstring strain during the preseason. Due to this injury, he frequently found himself in and out of the rotation under coach Tom Thibodeau. Consequently, his playing time dwindled, especially during the playoffs.
Embracing Freedom with the Kings
After signing with the Kings in November, Achiuwa stated that he feels more aligned with his playing style. He views this opportunity as a chance to fully express his game without the constraints he faced in New York.
- Age: 26
- 2023: Joined Knicks via trade
- 17-game stretch: 12.7 points, 9.8 rebounds
- Contract: Re-signed in summer 2024 for $6 million
- Injury: Hamstring strain during preseason
- Current Team: Sacramento Kings
In conclusion, Precious Achiuwa reflects on his past experiences while looking forward to embracing his new journey with the Kings.