7 Best New York Knicks Players of All Time, Ranked

The history of the New York Knicks is packed with expectation and disappointment. Until recently, the Knicks have rarely been among the Eastern Conference favourites in NBA betting.

Many basketball legends have come and gone in New York. Which ones are the best?

Who Are the Greatest Knicks Ever?

1. Patrick Ewing

Blessed with tremendous power, Patrick Ewing was one of the best post scorers, defenders, and shot blockers the NBA has ever seen.

The Hall of Famer made the Knicks a bona fide contender in the ’90s, but they failed to win a championship during Ewing’s time in the Big Apple. 

Ewing led the Knicks to the Finals in 1994, when Michael Jordan was out of the league and playing minor-league baseball, but the Houston Rockets, led by Hakeem Olajuwon, defeated New York in seven games.

The seven-time All-NBA and three-time All-Defensive center has the most points, rebounds, blocks, and steals in Knicks history.

2. Walt “Clyde” Frazier 

Known for his style on and off the court, Walt “Clyde” Frazier helped lead the Knicks to two championships.

The Hall of Famer’s quick hands helped him become one of the best playmakers and defenders in the league.

The six-time All-NBA and seven-time All-Defensive point guard has the most assists, and second-most points in franchise history.

3. Willis Reed 

With a badly injured leg, Willis Reed took the court for Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals, which helped inspire his teammates to get the job done. Many consider that the best moment in Knicks history.

The Hall of Famer earned Finals MVP honours in both of New York’s championships and also took home the MVP Award during the 1969-1970 season.

The five-time All-NBA and one-time All-Defensive center has the second-most rebounds and third-most points in franchise history.

4. Jalen Brunson

Eyebrows were raised when the Knicks signed Jalen Brunson to a long-term contract in 2022. Fast forward to 2026, and it looks like a masterstroke, with Brunson ranking third in franchise history in points per game and leading the Knicks to the NBA Finals.

An undersized scoring guard, Brunson relishes the big moments. His craftiness leads to good looks in the most awkward of situations, and even when he doesn’t get a good look, he’s got a knack for draining improbable shots. 

5. Dave DeBusschere 

Dave DeBusschere averaged 16.0 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game during his time in New York, winning two championships along the way.

The one-time All-NBA, six-time All-Defensive, and Hall of Fame forward has the seventh-most rebounds in team history.

6. Carmelo Anthony 

Carmelo Anthony helped lead the Knicks to their first 50-plus win season in more than a decade during the 2012-2013 season, finishing with a scoring title and third in MVP voting in the process.

“Melo’s” smooth pull-up jumper, ball-handling skills, ability to finish through contact, and overall athleticism made him one of the most unstoppable scorers in NBA history and an instant fan favourite under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden.

The six-time All-NBA forward has the seventh-most points in Knicks history and ninth-most points in NBA history.

7. Earl “The Pearl” Monroe 

Known for his spin move and crafty scoring abilities, Earl “The Pearl” Monroe helped bring a second championship to New York City.

The Hall of Fame guard has the eighth-most points in franchise history.