New York Knicks Sign Former Celtics Guard Garrison Mathews to Bolster Roster

What's Happening?

The New York Knicks have signed Garrison Mathews, a 6-foot-6 guard who previously played for the Boston Celtics and Atlanta Hawks, to an Exhibit 10 contract. Mathews, known for his three-point shooting ability, averaged 7.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game during the 2024-25 NBA season with the Hawks. The 28-year-old guard has a career three-point shooting percentage of 38.2% and has played for several teams, including the Washington Wizards and Houston Rockets. Mathews was originally undrafted but joined the NBA after a successful collegiate career at Lipscomb University, where he was named the 2019 Atlantic Sun Player of the Year. The Knicks hope Mathews can contribute as a three-point specialist off the bench.

Why It's Important?

The signing of Garrison Mathews is significant for the New York Knicks as they aim to strengthen their roster with reliable shooters. Mathews' ability to connect from beyond the arc could provide the Knicks with much-needed spacing and scoring off the bench. This move reflects the team's strategy to support their primary playmaker, Jalen Brunson, by surrounding him with capable shooters. For Mathews, this contract represents an opportunity to secure a more stable position in the NBA, as he has experienced frequent team changes throughout his career. The Knicks' decision to sign Mathews highlights their focus on enhancing their offensive capabilities, which could impact their performance in the upcoming season.

What's Next?

Garrison Mathews will join the Knicks for training camp, where he will have the chance to prove his value to the team. If he performs well, Mathews could earn a more permanent spot on the roster. The Knicks will evaluate his fit within their system and his ability to contribute consistently as a three-point shooter. The team's coaching staff will likely focus on integrating Mathews into their offensive schemes, maximizing his shooting strengths. As the NBA season approaches, the Knicks will continue to assess their roster and make adjustments to ensure they are competitive in the Eastern Conference.