Knicks create final roster contest as champions assess depth
New York has signed five players to non-guaranteed training-camp contracts as it weighs frontcourt depth and roster flexibility.
The defending NBA champion New York Knicks have signed Ochai Agbaji, Bruce Brown, James Wiseman, John Konchar and Drew Eubanks to non-guaranteed Exhibit 9 training-camp contracts.
The five players will compete for what is expected to be New York’s final roster spot. CBS Sports reported that the Knicks have 13 players on guaranteed contracts and just over US$3 million in room beneath the NBA’s second apron, though the roster and financial position may change.
The signings address a roster that lost backup centre Mitchell Robinson to the Boston Celtics. Andre Drummond was signed as his nominal replacement, while New York also pursued Yves Missi and made an offer sheet for Moussa Cissé without completing either acquisition.
Wiseman and Eubanks offer additional centre options, while Agbaji, Brown and Konchar add depth on the wing. The three perimeter signings also give New York more flexibility as it assesses a roster with several existing wing options.
A similar competition last season produced Landry Shamet, who became a significant contributor during the Knicks’ championship run and has since re-signed on a four-year deal. There is no indication yet which of this year’s five signings will win the spot or secure a regular role.
