Immanuel Quickley discusses failing to reach long-term deal with Knicks

After a long offseason of negotiations, the Knicks and Immanuel Quickley failed to reach an agreement on a contract extension ahead of Monday night’s 6 p.m. deadline.

The point guard, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal, is now set to hit restricted free agency for the first time in his career at the end of this season, though the Knicks could have a chance to match any offer.

While it’s certainly frustrating for both sides not to be able to come to terms on a new deal, Quickley told reporters following Tuesday’s practice that he’s already turned his focus towards opening night.

“The extension talks are over, I’m just focused on the season,” he said. “The Lord has his plan and we’re just going to stick with that. I know my value, I know who I am and I’m just going to continue to keep getting better.”

Quickley’s entering his fourth season in the league after being selected with the 25th pick of the 2020 NBA Draft. He has emerged as one of the more reliable and consistent contributors off the bench for New York over the past few seasons.

The Kentucky product finished as a runner-up in Sixth Man of the Year voting after breaking out last season for Tom Thibodeau and the Knicks.

He appeared in all but one game and averaged career-high’s with 14.9 points and 4.9 rebounds. He was able to slide into the starting lineup at times as an injury replacement and didn’t miss a beat.

Quickley has proven to be a huge asset for this squad, which is exactly why Thibodeau is hoping the two sides are able to reconvene this offseason and come to an agreement.

“It’s the business side of basketball,” the head coach said. “I’m hopeful it all works out. We love Quick. I love what he brings to our team and I love the way that he works. Let’s go have a great season and then we can sit down and talk again.”

New York will kick things off on Wednesday night at home against the Celtics. Even with Donte DiVincenzo joining the team this offseason, the 24-year-old is again set to serve as a key piece for Thibodeau’s squad.

Now heading into a contract year, Quickley says he’s ready to get out there and continue improving each night.

“Contract or no contract, I’m here for the season,” he said. “I’m here for the team to try to be the best version I can each and every day, to try to get better and dominate. I feel like our team is going to have a great year, I’m really excited to get going.”