What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The New York Knicks are evaluating the potential return of Dennis Smith Jr., a former player, as he works out with the team in hopes of an NBA comeback. Smith, who is 27 years old, last played for Real Madrid in Spain but left the team early due to an injury, effectively taking a year off from competitive basketball. The Knicks are also assessing other free agents, including frontcourt players Alex Len and Trey Jemison III. With the ability to bring up to 21 players into training camp, the Knicks currently have 12 players on guaranteed contracts. They are considering making roster adjustments to accommodate additional players, including those on non-guaranteed deals like Malcolm Brogdon, Landry Shamet, and Garrison Mathews. Smith, who was a high-flying lottery pick in 2017, previously played three seasons with the Knicks but struggled with injuries and confidence issues.
Why It's Important?
The potential return of Dennis Smith Jr. to the Knicks highlights the team's strategic efforts to strengthen their roster ahead of the upcoming NBA season. Smith's comeback attempt is significant as it underscores the challenges athletes face in maintaining their careers amid injuries and personal setbacks. For the Knicks, integrating a player with Smith's experience and defensive skills could provide depth and versatility to their lineup. The team's decision to explore trades to free up roster space indicates a proactive approach to optimizing their player mix. This development could impact the Knicks' performance in the competitive NBA landscape, influencing their chances of success in the season.
What's Next?
As the Knicks continue their evaluations, a decision on Smith's potential return is anticipated. The team may need to make trades to accommodate additional players, which could involve strategic negotiations with other NBA teams. The outcome of these roster adjustments will be closely watched by fans and analysts, as it could shape the Knicks' strategy and performance in the upcoming season. Smith's performance in workouts and his ability to demonstrate readiness for NBA competition will be critical factors in the team's decision-making process.
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