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Kevin Dewayne McCullar Jr., the versatile 6-foot-6 shooting guard/small forward for the New York Knicks, has signed a significant three-year contract extension that will keep him with the franchise through the 2027–28 NBA season.
This move reinforces the Knicks’ long-term vision and commitment to developing young, multi-skilled talent capable of contributing on both ends of the floor.
A Rising Star with Two-Way Potential
McCullar’s road to the NBA was anything but conventional. After beginning his college career at Texas Tech, he transferred to the University of Kansas, where he truly elevated his game. Despite battling a knee injury that cut short his final collegiate season, he impressed scouts with his overall basketball IQ, defensive tenacity, and versatility. During the 2023–24 NCAA season, McCullar averaged 18.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. He was a First-Team All-Big 12 selection and also made the Big 12 All-Defensive Team, which underscored his value as a two-way player. Though injuries limited his availability during the final stretch of the season, his all-around impact kept him on the radar of NBA teams. He was ultimately selected 56th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns and was immediately traded to the New York Knicks.
Despite being a late second-round pick, the Knicks saw potential in McCullar’s defensive instincts, positional flexibility, and leadership qualities.
From G League Development to NBA Debut
Shortly after joining the Knicks, McCullar signed a two-way contract, splitting time between the main roster and the Westchester Knicks, the team’s G League affiliate. It was in the G League where McCullar truly began to blossom. His performances included a standout triple-double in a game against the College Park Skyhawks, recording 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. That performance helped lead the Westchester Knicks to a franchise record for made three-pointers in a game, further amplifying his all-around value. His development in the G League culminated in an NBA debut on March 25, 2025, where he logged his first career points in a 128–113 victory over the Dallas Mavericks.
Although he played limited minutes, the debut was a milestone moment and a clear indication of the Knicks’ growing trust in his ability to contribute at the NBA level.
Details of the Extension and Organizational Implications
While financial terms of the extension have not been publicly released, the length and timing of the deal suggest the Knicks see McCullar as a valuable piece of their future. Securing a young, improving player through 2028 allows the franchise to maintain roster continuity while fostering internal development. McCullar’s extension also fits neatly within the broader structure of the Knicks’ long-term roster planning. Key players like Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns are also under contract through the 2027–28 season. By locking in McCullar for the same duration, the Knicks are building a cohesive unit that could contend in the Eastern Conference for years to come. The Knicks have emphasized defense, effort, and basketball intelligence under head coach Tom Thibodeau, and McCullar embodies all three attributes. His ability to guard multiple positions, contribute in transition, and facilitate within the offense makes him a valuable tool in a system that rewards gritty, team-first players.
Looking Ahead: Growth and Opportunity
As the Knicks continue their playoff campaign during the 2024–25 season, McCullar is expected to gradually earn more minutes and take on expanded responsibilities. With a proven college resume, early flashes in the G League, and growing experience on the NBA stage, his trajectory is trending upward. McCullar still has areas to improve—particularly his outside shooting and decision-making under pressure—but his foundation is solid. He’s already demonstrated a willingness to learn and adapt, two qualities that bode well for his continued growth in the league. In summary, Kevin McCullar Jr.’s three-year contract extension is more than a reward for his efforts—it’s a declaration of belief from the Knicks’ front office.
They view him not only as a rotational contributor but potentially as a high-impact player who can grow into a central role. If he continues to progress, McCullar could become a vital part of a Knicks core aiming to make deep playoff runs in the seasons to come.
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