Malcolm Brogdon’s Surprise Retirement: Will the Knicks Choose Landry Shamet or Trade for Andrew Wiggins?

The New York Knicks face an urgent roster dilemma after Malcolm Brogdon’s shocking retirement announcement. The veteran guard’s sudden exit forces the team to reconsider its final spot, with Landry Shamet emerging as the leading candidate—unless they pursue a blockbuster trade for Andrew Wiggins.

Brogdon’s departure leaves a critical gap in backcourt depth, escalating pressure on the front office to make a decisive move before training camp. As speculation swirls, all eyes are on whether the Knicks will prioritize immediate shooting help or swing for a high-risk, high-reward trade.

Malcolm Brogdon’s Sudden Retirement: What It Means for the Knicks

The New York Knicks were caught off guard by Malcolm Brogdon’s abrupt retirement after nine NBA seasons, forcing the franchise to recalibrate its backcourt strategy. Brogdon’s departure leaves a critical hole in the Knicks’ rotation, particularly as a veteran playmaker who could’ve anchored the second unit. His non-guaranteed contract means no financial hit, but the roster spot suddenly becomes a battleground between Landry Shamet and potential trade targets like Andrew Wiggins.

Brogdon’s career averages of 15.4 points, 4.7 assists, and 38.8% three-point shooting underscored his two-way value—a skillset now missing from New York’s bench. The Knicks must decide whether to prioritize continuity (Shamet) or swing for a transformative move (Wiggins).

This retirement isn’t just about losing a player—it’s about losing flexibility. Brogdon could’ve been traded at the deadline if things didn’t work out. Now, the Knicks are backed into a corner with fewer options.

Landry Shamet: The Safe Choice for the Knicks’ Final Roster Spot?

Veteran guard Landry Shamet now emerges as the frontrunner for Brogdon’s vacated spot, bringing career 38.7% three-point shooting to a team desperate for spacing. His $2.1M non-guaranteed deal is financially prudent, but questions linger about his defense and playmaking. Here’s how Shamet compares to Brogdon’s 2023-24 stats:

While Shamet fits the “3-and-D” mold, his -0.3 Defensive Box Plus/Minus last season pales next to Brogdon’s +1.1. The Knicks would need Jalen Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo to shoulder more playmaking duties.

Shamet is the low-risk choice, but low-risk rarely wins championships. If the Knicks are serious about contending, they should at least test the trade market before committing.

Andrew Wiggins Trade Scenario: A Bold Move for New York

Golden State’s Andrew Wiggins presents an intriguing alternative. The 2022 All-Star averaged 17.1 PPG and elite wing defense during the Warriors’ title run, but his $26.3M salary demands creative deal-making. A proposed framework:

• Knicks receive: Andrew Wiggins
• Warriors receive: Evan Fournier ($19M expiring), 2026 protected FRP

Wiggins’s 59.4% true shooting in 2022-23 would mesh perfectly with Brunson and Mikal Bridges. However, his inconsistency (career-worst 45.3% FG last season) makes this a high-stakes gamble.

Wiggins at his peak transforms the Knicks into title favorites. But are they prepared to bet $78M over three years on a player who vanished last season? Due diligence is essential here.

Dark Horse Candidates Fighting for the Roster Spot

Beyond established names, three under-the-radar options could emerge:

1. Tyler Kolek

The 2024 second-round pick dazzled in Summer League with 12.8 PPG and 6.2 APG. His pesky defense mirrors Miles McBride’s early career trajectory.

2. Garrison Mathews

While just a 36.3% three-point shooter, Mathews’ +1.8 Defensive RAPTOR in 2022-23 with Houston shows untapped potential.

3. Buyout Market

Veterans like Reggie Jackson (career 39.8% 3P) may become available if bought out by rebuilding teams.

Don’t sleep on Kolek. The Knicks’ development staff turned Immanuel Quickley into a Sixth Man candidate—they could work similar magic here.

Salary Cap Implications and Strategic Considerations

Brogdon’s retirement gives New York $8.3M in breathing room below the second apron. Key financial factors:

• Shamet’s deal wouldn’t affect tax penalties
• Wiggins trade would hard-cap the Knicks at $188.9M
• Fournier’s expiring $19M remains their best trade chip

Notably, the Knicks could still create a $12.4M Disabled Player Exception if Julius Randle isn’t cleared by opening night—adding another pathway for upgrades.

Prediction: How the Knicks Will Ultimately Proceed

Expect a multiphase approach:

1. Start camp with Shamet and Kolek competing
2. Aggressively scout Wiggins’ preseason performance
3. Revisit trade talks near the December 15 eligibility date

The most likely outcome? Shamet makes the initial roster, but Leon Rose keeps the trade lines open for a bigger swing before February’s deadline.

This isn’t over. Brogdon’s retirement is just Act 1 of New York’s roster drama. Stay tuned.