The New York Knicks announced on Wednesday the signing of several veteran players to training camp deals, including Bruce Brown, Ochai Agbaji, Drew Eubanks, and John Konchar, all of whom are on Exhibit 9 contracts. With limited salary cap space remaining, the Knicks appear to have one available roster spot, setting the stage for competition among the veterans during training camp.
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James Wiseman, still only 25 years old, was also signed. Selected second overall in the 2020 NBA Draft, Wiseman's professional career has not progressed as anticipated. If he secures a spot on New York's opening-night roster, he will join a list of other lottery picks the Knicks have acquired who struggled to meet their expected potential.
This list includes:
- **Cole Aldrich**: The 11th overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft, Aldrich averaged just 2.0 points and 2.3 rebounds during his first three seasons. The Knicks signed him in 2013, and he played two years with them, starting 16 games in the 2014-15 season and averaging 5.5 points and 5.2 rebounds.
- **Jonathan Bender**: Selected fifth overall in 1999, Bender's career was hindered by injuries, leading to a three-year absence from the NBA. The Knicks signed him after this gap, and he played 25 games in the 2009-10 season, scoring in double digits three times before retirement.
- **Mario Hezonja**: Previously selected fifth overall in the 2015 draft, Hezonja had three seasons with the Orlando Magic before joining the Knicks for the 2018-19 season. Notable moments with New York included blocking a game-winning shot by LeBron James and dunking over Giannis Antetokounmpo.
- **DerMarr Johnson**: The sixth overall pick in 2000, Johnson faced challenges early in his career and missed a full season due to injury. The Knicks signed him late in the 2003-04 season, where he played 21 games and recorded a standout 22-point performance in an overtime win against the Washington Wizards.