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Kevin McCullar Jr.’s Quiet Return Means This NBA Champion Could Transform the Knicks Backcourt for Jalen Brunson

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New York Knicks logo on gradient background
New York Knicks logo on gradient background — Created by the Sports On Tap desk | Source : Sports On Tap (team logos property of their respective owners)

The New York Knicks pulled off a fascinating two-way roster move, snatching up an NBA champion guard who’s already familiar with the organization to help out Jalen Brunson and the crew. Kevin McCullar Jr., a 25-year-old, 6-foot-6, 210-pound force, is officially back on a two-way deal, according to the franchise announcement last Saturday. This move might fly under the radar, but it has some serious potential.

McCullar’s Game: From Westchester Dominance to NBA Potential

Last season, McCullar showed he’s got game, lighting it up for the Westchester Knicks in the G-League. He started all 10 games he played, averaging a killer 16.8 points on 46.7% shooting, dishing out 6.7 assists, grabbing 5.4 rebounds, swatting 1.2 blocks, and snatching 2.0 steals. Talk about stuffing the stat sheet! But he wasn’t just doing it in the G-League. He also suited up for the big club for 21 games, even dropping a career-high 14 points on a blistering 54.5% shooting, adding two boards, an assist, and two steals against Charlotte on April 12, 2026. This isn’t some rookie; this is a third-year pro with undeniable potential.

The Josh Hart Role That Could Unleash Brunson

Sure, the Kansas product still needs to prove he can stretch the floor consistently in the NBA and G League, but let’s not get it twisted, his other skills are absolutely vital. The guy is a methodical slasher, a multi-faceted, pesky defender, and a witty off-ball operator. Sounds familiar? The whispers are that McCullar could absolutely step into a Josh Hart-like role for the Knicks, especially when he gets his chances with the main squad this season. That kind of defensive intensity and off-ball savvy next to Jalen Brunson? Yes, please!

Look, the 2026-27 season is staring us down, and the Knicks are clearly invested in seeing McCullar’s development through. This isn’t a throwaway signing; they’re banking on this former second-round pick to step up. It’s all on McCullar now to put in the work and make this partnership a long-term win for the organization. Keep an eye on this guy; he could be a crucial piece for the Knicks this season.

This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.

Originally reported by The Sporting News.

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