The New York Knicks find themselves shorthanded at the moment with a lack of size thanks to both Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson being out. Robinson is expected to make his return in the next few days. In the meantime, the Knicks don't have an active center on their roster, and they are reportedly considering their options.
As far as frontcourt replacements, an intriguing name has cropped up, according to James L. Edwards III of the New York Times. Former Los Angeles Lakers center Christian Wood was recently waived by the Lakers, and while he hasn't played a game this season, he would be an interesting low-cost option for the Knicks.
The Knicks could add two players this weekend. The return of Mitchell Robinson feels closer and closer. Additionally, the financially-strapped team can finally sign a new player this weekend if they choose.
— James L. Edwards III (@JLEdwardsIII) February 27, 2025
Took a look at some name to keep an eye on:https://t.co/0PbulSXvJJ
New York has two open roster spots and may soon look to fill them ahead of the final leg of the regular season. After a lackluster stint with the Lakers, he may not have a lot left in the tank. However, during his many previous stops in the NBA, he was a highly productive big man who could score in the post, knock down threes, and rebound.
NBA Rumors: Should the New York Knicks sign Christian Wood?
The Knicks shouldn't be without a center for much longer, with Towns and Robinson expected to return to the lineup within the next few games. Be that as it may, they could use more depth at center after trading Jericho Sims, and with them having to try to work Robinson back into the lineup with him having missed the entire season thus far.
Nevertheless, despite being a good offensive player for the majority of his career, it may not make a lot of sense for New York to sign Wood. Even when he was healthy last season, he didn't make much of an impact, averaging 6.9 points and 5.1 rebounds in 17.4 minutes, while his true shooting percentage was among the lowest of his career.
Despite his strong career numbers, in which he managed to post 13.6 points and 7 rebounds in just 23.2 minutes while shooting 37.2% from three, he has bounced around. He's played for eight teams in eight years, with the Knicks possibly being his ninth team. If he were close to the level he played at in 2022–23 with the Dallas Mavericks, then he would be worth the Knicks taking a closer look at, but at the moment, they should look elsewhere.
Ultimately, the next could use more size and depth, particularly at the center. While Wood may not be their answer, they should be getting Town and Robinson back shortly, which should help them solve their short-term problem of a lack of size.