Knicks Seek Frontcourt Depth: Potentially Target Two Former Lakers

The Knicks could be looking to shore up their big man rotation, as they were recently reported to be working out two former Lakers.

4 Min Read

Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images

The New York Knicks are poised to be one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference next season. Having made some changes this offseason, New York is primed to make a run at winning the NBA title.

With a new head coach and necessary roster upgrades, the Knicks look like an improved unit. However, some questions about the rotation still need to be addressed. To address this, the NY Post’s Stefan Bondy reported that former Lakers centers Alex Len and Trey Jemison were working out with the team. He wrote:

“The Knicks are also working out free agent frontcourt players, sources told The Post, including Alex Len and Trey Jemison III. NBA teams can bring as many as 21 players into training camp, and the Knicks have only 12 on guaranteed contracts.”

New York possesses noteworthy depth across its roster, primarily owed to the positional flexibility of the players. While the center rotation featuring Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson has proven effective, it is evident that Robinson’s injury history could become an issue during the regular season. This gives rise to a need for a more prominent big man.

Given how the Knicks have managed their cap space, the Knicks aren’t in a position to sign another veteran to a minimum, especially with the recent signing of Landry Shamet. Hence, seeking a free agent like Jemison or Len may prove to be more feasible if they wish to stay below the second tax apron.

Last season, both were a part of the Los Angeles Lakers‘ roster. Given that they were tertiary options in the big man rotation, they received very limited playing time.

Len, a 12-year veteran, played 10 games for the Lakers and averaged 2.2 points and 3.1 rebounds per game, while shooting 45.5% from the field. 

Meanwhile, Jemison is on the verge of entering his third season in the league. Having appeared in 22 games for the Lakers, he showed some rebounding upside and hustle, as he averaged 2.6 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in 10.3 minutes played.

When considering that these additions would primarily serve as insurance against injuries suffered by players in the main rotation, it could be justified. Given their limited production, however, they may not move the needle.

Barring the need for a big man, New York may also consider bolstering its point guard depth, with Malcolm Brogdon emerging as a target. However, former first-round pick Dennis Smith Jr. has also been spotted working out with the Knicks.

As Bondy reported, the Knicks can go into training camp with 21 players on their roster, which will eventually need to be trimmed down to 15 to finalize the team before the regular season begins.

Shamet’s signing does create some space concerns. Additionally, with the cap space limitations, the front office may need to trigger some trades to simultaneously clear up roster and cap space to make more signings.

Newsletter

Stay up to date with our newsletter on the latest news, trends, ranking lists, and evergreen articles

Follow on Google News

Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We appreciate your support.

Share This Article
Siddhant Gupta is a basketball columnist at Fadeaway World, based out of Mumbai, India. He combines firsthand playing experience with thoughtful analysis to report on the NBA's ever-evolving world. A lifelong athlete, Siddhant's perspective is rooted in years on the court, giving his work a unique edge that resonates with both casual fans and seasoned ones.Before joining Fadeaway World, he spent two formative years at Sportskeeda, where he sharpened his skills and had the opportunity to interview NBA legend Ray Allen during his time in India. A diehard Los Angeles Lakers fan since 2008, Siddhant doesn't just report on the game—he lives it. Beyond his work, he is a student of the game, constantly learning, debating, and engaging with the local and global basketball communities.
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *