The New York Knicks' Title Triumph
The New York Knicks lifted the NBA Championship in 2026 for the first time since 1973, but it was not thanks to their first-round draft picks. In fact, the Knicks have only picked five times in the first round since 2018, and their title-winning squad was constructed through free agency and trades.
What Happened to Their Last Five First-Round Picks?
The Knicks' last five first-round picks are a mixed bag, with some players thriving in the NBA and others struggling to find regular playing time. Let's take a look at what happened to each of them.
Pacôme Dadiet
Pacôme Dadiet was drafted by the Knicks in 2022, but he has struggled to find regular playing time. Despite averaging 15.3 points per game at Summer League, Dadiet has played in only 47 games over two seasons, averaging just 5.3 minutes per game. It's going to be an uphill fight for the Frenchman to force his way into the Knicks' plans.
Obi Toppin
Obi Toppin was traded away by the Knicks in 2023, but he has shown considerable improvement in Indiana. Toppin played a key role under Rick Carlisle in the 2024 and 2025 playoffs, but his 2025/26 season was wrecked due to an injury and a generally lost year for the Pacers.
RJ Barrett
RJ Barrett was traded away by the Knicks in 2023, but he has thrived in Toronto. Barrett started 57 games for the Raptors last season, averaging 19.3 points per game. Despite being traded away, Barrett remains a key player in the NBA.
Kevin Knox II
Kevin Knox II was drafted by the Knicks in 2018, but his career has been a disappointment. Knox was traded away in 2021 and has bounced around the NBA ever since, playing for the Atlanta Hawks, Detroit Pistons, Portland Trail Blazers, and Golden State Warriors. Last season, he had a brief stint with the Bulls' G-League squad.
Frank Ntilikina
Frank Ntilikina was drafted by the Knicks in 2017, but his time in New York was a disaster. Ntilikina was cut by the Knicks and signed with the Dallas Mavericks, but he has since returned to Europe and won the EuroLeague championship with Olympiacos in 2026.
Recent Form
The New York Knicks are currently on a 4-game winning run, with their most recent win coming against the San Antonio Spurs on June 14, 2026 (90-94). They are looking to build on their title-winning season and make a deep run in the playoffs.
What Comes Next?
The Knicks' future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: they will need to make some tough decisions about their first-round draft picks. Will they continue to trade away their young players, or will they try to build a winning team through the draft? Only time will tell.
