Guerschon Yabusele, a new member of the New York Knicks, has significantly bulked up ahead of the upcoming NBA season. Weighing in at 283 pounds, Yabusele added 18 pounds compared to his previous season with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Yabusele’s Transformation and Impact
Coach Mike Brown confirmed that the decision to increase Yabusele’s weight was not directed by him but was instead discussed with the team’s performance staff. This strategic addition to his physique is intended to enhance his contribution off the bench.
At 6-foot-8, Yabusele averaged 11.0 points and 5.6 rebounds last season, establishing himself as a valuable player. His arrival is part of the Knicks’ effort to strengthen their roster, alongside fellow offseason acquisition Jordan Clarkson.
NBA’s Heaviest Players
Yabusele now stands as the heaviest player on the Knicks roster, which also includes two seven-footers. His weight places him among the league’s heaviest players, competing with notable names like:
- Zach Edey – 305 pounds
- Jusuf Nurkic – 290 pounds
- Nikola Jokic – 284 pounds
Preseason Performance
Despite the physical transformation, Yabusele’s preseason performance has been modest. In five games, he recorded an average of only 4.8 points and 3.2 rebounds, with a shooting percentage of 31%. This indicates room for improvement as the regular season approaches.
Contract Details
The Knicks secured Yabusele with a two-year, $12 million contract in the offseason. His continued development will be crucial for the team as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
Additionally, teammate Karl-Anthony Towns has returned to practice, indicating that he has overcome a quad injury. Towns commented on his readiness for the season, emphasizing the importance of preparation.
