NBA Free Agency Rumors: New York Knicks predicted to land $50 million Orlando Magic star to boost bench depth and improve title odds

The New York Knicks are in the midst of retooling their roster to build a more effective bench unit, and one NBA analyst believes signing former Magic Star, Markelle Fultz, could be a low-risk, high-reward move.

With a new era beginning under head coach Mike Brown, the Knicks are aiming to address one of their most glaring weaknesses from last season — second-unit production.

New York Knicks Struggled with Bench Output in 2024-25

Despite making the playoffs, the New York Knicks’ bench unit was statistically one of the worst in the league during the 2024-25 season. They ranked at the bottom in both bench points (21.7 per game) and bench minutes (12.7 per game) — far below league averages. With a revamped coaching staff and strategic acquisitions like Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele, the franchise is looking for one more piece to solidify its reserve rotation.

Markelle Fultz: A Potential Buy-Low Target

Former 76ers guard Markelle Fultz, the No. 1 pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, has had a tumultuous career marked by injuries and inconsistent opportunities. Still just 27, Fultz played 21 games for the Sacramento Kings last season, averaging 2.9 points and 1.3 assists in limited action (8.8 minutes per game).While those numbers may seem underwhelming, his more extended stint with the Orlando Magic (2019–2024) tells a different story.

When healthy, Fultz proved he could be a productive contributor off the bench or even in spot starts.

Career Highlight Season (2022–23)

His efforts on defense were also quietly impactful. According to The Sporting News, Markelle Fultz posted a 0.7 defensive box plus-minus that year, signaling his value as a two-way presence — an area where the New York Knicks desperately need depth, especially behind starting guards like Jalen Brunson.

Low-Cost, High-Upside Fit for a New Knicks Identity

Bringing in Markelle Fultz wouldn’t require a large financial commitment, making the move a classic low-risk, high-reward gamble.

He’s versatile, can play on or off the ball, and has experience bouncing back from adversity — qualities that could thrive under Mike Brown’s system.If healthy, Fultz could provide:- Secondary ball-handling and playmaking- Defensive stability in short spurts- Veteran poise at just 27 years old- Insurance in case of injuries to the starting backcourtDean Simon of The Sporting News writes, “If the New York Knicks are willing to give the two-way guard a shot at contributing to a team with championship aspirations in spot minutes, a healthy campaign for Markelle Fultz could result in the team completing one of the more underrated signings of the 2025 offseason.”Also read: NBA Analyst's Blockbuster Proposal Lands Warriors $82 Million Former Cavaliers Champion as Kevon Looney’s ReplacementAs the New York Knicks aim to build a title-contending squad, adding Markelle Fultz as a depth piece could be a smart bet. Given his pedigree, recent flashes, and age, the former top pick offers just enough upside to justify a roster spot. For a team that ranked among the worst in bench production last year, such a move might be exactly what they need to turn the corner.