James Wiseman makes strong first impression in bid for final Knicks roster spot

James Wiseman is among several veterans competing for the Knicks’ final roster spot.

New York is prioritizing keeping another big man in the mix, perhaps giving Wiseman and others the inside track for the position.

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The 25-year-old made a strong first impression in Monday’s preseason opener.

Mike Brown played the Knicks’ regulars sparingly their first time out, creating an opportunity for the reserves to showcase what they can do.

While he only saw nine minutes off the bench, Wiseman took advantage.

The former No. 2 overall pick made his presence felt on both ends of the floor, knocking down three of four shots and a pair of free throws for eight points while also pulling in five boards.

One of those buckets came on a nice alley-oop feed from Jordan Clarkson, and another on a putback layup after cleaning up a missed shot on the offensive glass.

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Wiseman finished the night a -13, but also recorded a block.

“It felt good just contributing to the team,” he said. “I’m just focused on taking things one day at a time, building on each game and each practice, and doing the simple things.”

If Wiseman can carry this strong start into the Knicks’ next three preseason matchups, perhaps he can earn himself a deal and the third center spot to start the year.

The big man does already have a fan in head coach Mike Brown, who was on the Warriors’ coaching staff during his first two NBA seasons.

“When you’re that long and athletic with skill, there’s a place for you in this league,” Brown recently said. “Sometimes it takes the right moment, the right team, the right situation, all of that to be able to fit someplace and grow — he’s one of the many guys that we’re excited about.”

Wiseman hasn’t quite fit in just yet during his NBA career, but perhaps he’ll be able to while reuniting with Brown.

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/james-wiseman-makes-strong-first-143501490.html

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Publish date : 2026-10-06 14:35:00

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