“It’s About Time They Unleash the Potential of the Team” – Andrea Bargnani Admits He Is Happy with the New York Knicks’ Resurgence
Former NBA big man and one-time New York Knick, Andrea Bargnani, has spoken out publicly in support of the franchise’s long-awaited resurgence, saying, “It’s about time they unleash the potential of the team.” Bargnani, who played for the Knicks from 2013 to 2015, has watched from afar as the team has finally reemerged as a serious contender in the Eastern Conference, and he couldn’t hide his satisfaction with the progress.
Though his time in New York was plagued by injuries and a dysfunctional roster, Bargnani maintains a deep connection to the franchise and the city. Speaking in a recent interview with Italian media, the former No. 1 overall pick reflected on his time in New York, the struggles the franchise has endured since, and why he believes this version of the Knicks is finally built to last.
Bargnani’s Knicks Experience: A Cautionary Tale
When Bargnani arrived in New York in 2013 via a trade from the Toronto Raptors, the Knicks were still clinging to hopes of contending. The team had made the playoffs the season prior with Carmelo Anthony leading the charge, and there was optimism that Bargnani, with his scoring touch and floor-spacing ability, could provide a new offensive dimension.
Unfortunately, that plan never materialized. Bargnani battled a slew of injuries during his Knicks tenure, playing in just 71 total games over two seasons. The team struggled mightily on the court, failing to reach the postseason and enduring front office instability and coaching turnover. Bargnani’s stint with the Knicks came to symbolize a broader era of mediocrity and mismanagement for the once-proud franchise.
“It was a difficult time,” Bargnani admitted. “There were too many changes, too many egos, and not enough continuity. New York always had talent, but the pieces never fit together. There was pressure everywhere — from the media, from the fans, from within.”
A New Era in the Garden
Fast forward to 2025, and the Knicks are almost unrecognizable from the teams Bargnani once suited up for. Led by All-Star point guard Jalen Brunson, the Knicks have become one of the most disciplined and gritty teams in the league. Under head coach Tom Thibodeau, they boast a top-five defense, a strong bench, and a culture of accountability that was sorely lacking during Bargnani’s time.
Bargnani believes the current roster reflects a long-overdue embrace of player development and stability.
“For years, the Knicks kept trying to skip steps. They chased stars, made rushed trades, and never built from the ground up. This version of the Knicks is different — they’ve drafted well, they’ve developed their players, and they play for each other.”
Indeed, New York’s core — including RJ Barrett, Quentin Grimes, and Mitchell Robinson — features homegrown talent that has been nurtured over multiple seasons. The addition of savvy veterans like Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo has added championship DNA to the mix, while Brunson’s emergence as a true leader has given the Knicks the floor general they’ve lacked since the days of Walt “Clyde” Frazier.
A Model for Sustained Success?
Bargnani is particularly impressed with the front office stability under team president Leon Rose and general manager Scott Perry, who have resisted the urge to make panic moves and instead focused on long-term sustainability.
“The front office deserves credit,” Bargnani said. “They had the patience to build something real. And now, when you watch the team, there’s identity. You know what kind of game they’re going to play. That’s huge.”
He also noted how refreshing it is to see Madison Square Garden buzzing again.
“As a player, there’s nothing like MSG when the Knicks are good. The fans are different — they live basketball. And for the last two years, you can feel that energy again. The fans waited a long time, and they deserve this.”
Knicks on the Brink of Greatness?
While the Knicks have not yet reached the NBA Finals during this new era, their consistent playoff appearances and progress suggest that they are on the brink of becoming a true championship contender. Bargnani believes the team is one bold move away from reaching the mountaintop — but he urges the front office not to compromise the team’s culture in pursuit of a quick fix.
“Superstars help you win titles, but chemistry and toughness matter just as much. If they can find the right star — someone who fits, not just in talent but in mindset — then yes, they can go all the way.”
Names like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Donovan Mitchell, and Devin Booker have been linked to New York in various trade rumors. But Bargnani warns against sacrificing what has made the Knicks successful in recent years.
Final Thoughts: Pride and Perspective
Though Andrea Bargnani’s time with the Knicks didn’t go the way he or the fans had hoped, his affection for the franchise has never faded. Watching the current team thrive has brought a sense of closure and satisfaction for the Italian star.
“People forget that players love the game. We want to win. I didn’t have the chance to do that in New York, but I always believed the team had potential. It’s about time they unleashed it.”
With the Knicks continuing their ascent, it seems Bargnani’s sentiment is finally being realized — and a new chapter in New York basketball history is being written, one built not on hype, but on heart, hustle, and hard-earned success.
Leave a Reply