The New York Knicks have done the right thing by allowing several veterans to compete for one of the final roster spots during the preseason. The group features players with extensive NBA experience, including NBA champions.
However, roster cuts are about to begin. Drew Eubanks was waived on Thursday after suffering an injury.
“Knicks center Drew Eubanks sustained a torn pectoral muscle and will be sidelined for an extended period of time, sources tell ESPN. New York will waive Eubanks, who was competing for a reserve center spot in training camp,” ESPN’s Shams Charania posted.
This is unfortunate news for Eubanks, as New York is expected to use its final roster spot on a center. Before the injury, it seemed like NBA champion James Wiseman was in a good position to earn the spot. Now, the injury almost guarantees it.
“Prior to the Drew Eubanks injury, center James Wiseman had put himself in good position to make Knicks’ final roster, per SNY sources familiar with the matter. Knicks have enough room under 2nd apron to keep one camp vet,” SNY’s Ian Begley wrote.
It was going to be difficult to beat Wiseman out for a roster spot after his most recent performance. The 7-footer recorded a double-double against the Toronto Raptors.
“James Wiseman finished with 18 points (7-of-8 FGs) and 10 rebounds in a 148-98 loss to the Raptors on Tuesday. The Knicks rested their starters for their final preseason outing, which gave Wiseman the opportunity to start. He made the most of his opportunity, though it didn’t do much to help the Knicks on the scoreboard,” NBC Sports’ Noah Rubin wrote.
All that remains is for the Knicks to find a way to retain Bruce Brown. The team is in need of a third center in case of an injury, and Wiseman’s connection to head coach Mike Brown certainly helps.
It is unfortunate that an injury is what has seemingly secured Wiseman’s roster spot, but that is part of the game. New York already has a good idea of what its regular-season roster will look like heading into the final preseason game.
