The New York Knicks have narrowed their training camp roster to a competition between Bruce Brown and James Wiseman for the team's final spot, following the waivers of Tony Bradley, Drew Eubanks, and Ochai Agbaji on Thursday. Both players remain uncertain about securing the position as the Knicks prepare for their preseason finale against the Toronto Raptors.
Neither Brown nor Wiseman indicated that their place on the team was assured. Brown acknowledged the ongoing battle for the roster spot, saying, “It’s not over yet. So still got to fight.” Wiseman echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the need to stay humble and keep working.
The Knicks face financial constraints imposed by owner James Dolan, who has instructed the front office to maintain payroll below the NBA’s $222 million second apron threshold. With these limitations, the team has room for only one more minimum salary contract, expected to fill the void left by the departures of center Mitchell Robinson and rookie Ariel Hukporti. The club did add Andre Drummond in free agency, but competition remains intense for the backup center role.
Head coach Mike Brown highlighted the contrasting profiles of the two rivals. He noted Bruce Brown’s veteran experience, highlighting his championship pedigree with the Denver Nuggets and his versatility on both ends of the floor. “He’s a winner, seems like every place he’s gone, he’s won,” the coach said. In contrast, Wiseman is still seen as a raw talent trying to solidify his place in the league. “He’s young, he’s talented, he’s raw still,” Mike Brown said. “Given his athleticism and quickness, it could bode well for him on both ends of the floor.”
The team’s salary cap situation leaves little flexibility to retain both players unless a trade is executed. Pacome Dadiet’s prospects for a trade remain limited due to his third-year status and limited playing time. Options such as Tyler Kolek or Miles McBride could be considered, but salary recapture rules complicate potential moves involving McBride.
Bruce Brown brings significant playoff and championship experience, having been part of the Nuggets’ 2023 title run and the Brooklyn Nets squads from 2020 to 2022 featuring Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Wiseman, the second overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors, is viewed as an athletic, rim-protecting center still developing his game.
Both players expressed awareness of their expected roles on the Knicks as end-of-rotation contributors. Brown underscored his willingness to accept a supporting role, citing his work ethic and experience. “If it’s a role to be on the bench and be your cheerleader, I’m happy to do that,” he said. Wiseman emphasized his focus on defense and running the floor, asserting that protecting the rim is his primary contribution.
As the Knicks approach the start of the regular season, the decision between the experienced Bruce Brown and the promising James Wiseman remains a pivotal one for the team’s frontcourt depth.