The Knicks will let a litany of veterans duke it out for the final roster spot.
A day after signing John Konchar and Drew Eubanks, the Knicks signed Bruce Brown, Ochai Agbaji and James Wiseman on Wednesday. All five of those deals are non-guaranteed Exhibit 9 deals.
Wiseman was the No. 2 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Warriors. He has failed to live up to expectations after opportunities with the Warriors, Pistons and Pacers.
The Knicks are currently at 13 standard NBA contracts – one under the required 14.
James Wiseman #13 of the Detroit Pistons looks on during the game on February 10, 2024 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NBAE via Getty Images
Teams are allowed up to 15, though the Knicks only have room — unless other moves are made — for one more deal to stay under the second apron.
So, it’s a battle for that 14th spot. Whoever wins the competition will convert to a standard contract ahead of the season.
It’s similar to what the Knicks did last year, letting a few veterans – mostly Landry Shamet, Malcom Brogdon and Garrison Matthews – compete for their final standard contract.
Bruce Brown #11 of the Denver Nuggets reacts after a dunk against the Phoenix Suns in the fourth quarter at Ball Arena on April 29, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. Getty Images
After Brogdon’s sudden retirement, Shamet beat out Matthews and ended up being a key bench piece during the team’s championship run. The last roster spot is certainly something that can matter down the line.
Training camp is set to begin on Sept. 28.
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