The New York Knicks did not bolster their frontcourt at the trade deadline, relying instead on Mitchell Robinson to remain healthy and serve as backup insurance when he returns.
Knicks could pursue Christian Wood in the free agent market
However, they may still look to add depth through the free agent market, and a new option has emerged. Former Los Angeles Lakers center, who was recently waived by the team, could offer the Knicks some much-needed offensive production off the bench.
“Wood can stretch the floor as either a power forward or center while also providing defense and rebounding when necessary. With Robinson returning, the Knicks’ primary focus will be adding offensive firepower off the bench. Although guards Cameron Payne and Miles McBride have been reliable reserves, New York’s bench production from the forward and center positions remains lacking,” wrote Sports Illustrated’s Jed Katz.
Wood, 29, has not played this season due to a knee injury that required offseason surgery. The 6-foot-8 big man was waived by the Lakers after they signed Alex Len, following a failed trade for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams due to a failed physical.
Wood can provide a positive impact for the Knicks
The eight-year veteran experienced a dip in production with the Lakers last season, averaging just 6.9 points per game across 50 appearances. However, when given consistent playing time, Wood has demonstrated his ability to make an impact in the frontcourt. He averaged 21.0 points and 9.6 rebounds per game with the Houston Rockets during the 2020-21 season, followed by 17.9 points and 10.1 rebounds the following year.
Wood finished fourth in Sixth Man of the Year voting during the 2019-20 season with the Detroit Pistons and ranked ninth in the same category with the Dallas Mavericks in 2022-23. While his knee injury raises valid concerns for any team considering signing him, Wood remains a valuable addition for teams in need of offensive production in the frontcourt — something he could provide for the Knicks.
New York would likely need to clear some salary cap space to sign Wood and would have to wait until March 1 to avoid exceeding the second apron. However, adding him could be a worthwhile move that significantly bolsters their bench depth.