John Gabriel, who won the executive of the year award while with the Orlando Magic, has joined the Knicks? front office and will assume a major role in rebuilding the roster after seven straight losing seasons.

Donnie Walsh, the team president, appointed Gabriel as the director of pro scouting and free agency, a newly created position. Gabriel?s primary duty will be evaluating current N.B.A. players, with an eye toward future trades and free-agent signings.