Moses Brown: A Potential Solution for the Knicks’ Center Drought
With Ariel Hukporti out for several weeks and the Knicks’ center position experiencing a significant strain, the team is exploring options to bolster their frontcourt. SNY’s NBA Insider Ian Begley reports that one of the players on the Knicks’ radar to fill their 15th roster spot is Moses Brown. Brown, a 25-year-old center with a 7-foot-2 frame, has a storied and well-traveled career spanning six years and seven different teams. His experience and recent performance make him a compelling candidate to help solidify the Knicks’ interior presence.
A Local Talent with a Promising Start
Moses Brown’s journey to the NBA includes a notable local connection. A product of Archbishop Molloy High School in Briarwood, NY, Brown’s roots in the New York area add a personal touch to his potential return. His time with the Westchester Knicks, the Knicks’ G League affiliate, earlier this season showcases his familiarity with the organization and its systems. This familiarity could help him integrate smoothly into the team, especially given the immediate need for depth at the center position.
Recent Performance Highlights
Brown’s recent performance has been particularly noteworthy. In a 103-96 win against the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday, he contributed 20 points, 11 rebounds, three steals, and two blocks in 31 minutes. This performance was his second double-digit scoring game of the season, following a 15-point effort against the Washington Wizards in November while playing for the Indiana Pacers. His ability to dominate the paint with his size and agility is evident, making him a valuable asset in both offensive and defensive roles.
A Well-Travelled Career
Over the course of his six-year career, Moses Brown has played for seven different teams, accumulating a solid average of 5.2 points and 4.9 rebounds over 162 games (45 starts). His well-traveled career has equipped him with a diverse set of skills and experiences, making him a versatile player capable of adapting to various playing styles and team dynamics. This adaptability is particularly crucial for the Knicks, who are navigating the complexities of the current season with an eye on both immediate needs and long-term development.
Navigating the Cap Space and Signing Options
The current cap situation adds another layer of complexity to the Knicks’ pursuit of Moses Brown. Dallas, Brown’s current team, cannot immediately sign him to another 10-day deal because they are hard-capped at the first apron. This means that Brown will be available after his current 10-day contract expires. The Knicks, on the other hand, have the flexibility to add a veteran like Brown because their team salary is hard-capped at the second apron, and they have sufficient cap space under the apron to offer a veteran’s minimum deal. This cap space provides the Knicks with the opportunity to strengthen their roster without incurring significant financial constraints.
Other Contenders and Future Considerations
Before the Hukporti injury, the Knicks were also considering other players for their open roster spot, including T.J. Warren and Chuma Okeke. Both Warren and Okeke bring their own set of skills and experiences to the table, but Moses Brown’s recent performance and familiarity with the Knicks’ systems make him a particularly attractive option. As the Knicks navigate the remainder of the season, adding a player with Brown’s experience and potential could provide the necessary depth and stability to their frontcourt, helping them weather the current challenges and set the stage for future success.
