A few days ago we learned that Bruce Brown, Ochai Agbaji, and James Wiseman signed non-guaranteed Exhibit 9 contracts with the New York Knicks, deals that, nonetheless, are expected to become permanent for only one of them. The former Denver Nugget appears to hold an early edge in the race.
According to Mike Vaccaro of the New York Post, Brown’s traits put him a step ahead, as he has the kind of character and style that the Big Apple loves, starting with a fan base that he says will treat him as a favorite as soon as they see him on the court during training camp.
Added to that is the fact that Brown has long been a target for New York, who already showed interest in him during the 2024 trade window when he was with the Toronto Raptors. On that occasion it didn’t materialize, but the player himself, who already knows the city from two seasons with the Nets, stated at the time that he would love to return to the City.
Returning to the duel for a spot under Mike Brown’s guidance, Vaccaro draws a comparison between Brown’s current situation and what happened last season with Landry Shamet, who ended up staying and playing a central role in a campaign that finished with a championship ring.
Bruce Brown, Doorway to a Trade?
One of the issues the Knicks still need to decide is Miles McBride’s future. From the front office they are clear that renewing his contract—set to expire in June 2027—would be a smart move, but they are also financially stretched (second apron), so for now they do not intend to take that step.
With a McBride extension looking highly unlikely, Vaccaro suggests that Brown’s signing would give the team perimeter depth, freeing up the front office to trade McBride and thereby acquire another reserve center. They are indeed testing Wiseman, yes, but it doesn’t seem to be the real objective.
