Potential Knicks free agent targets: Christian Wood, Detroit Pistons
Perhaps the most coveted free agent among many in the fanbase is up-and-coming big man Christian Wood. Fans old enough to remember the Knicks throwing money at players coming off impressive summer league performances might see it a bit risky to pay for a player who has really played only one strong season in the NBA. But for the right price, Wood would be a solid addition.
Finding an opportunity after the Andre Drummond trade, Wood made the most of it. He finished the season averaging an impressive 22 points per game, along with 10.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks.
Detroit will prioritize re-signing the 24-year-old, which could price him out of the Knicks’ market. The prospect of having max cap space in 2021 – when several prominent free agents become attainable – could keep Leon Rose from spending too richly this offseason.
SNY reported in March that some in New York’s front office are “enamored” with Wood. Obviously, with new additions to both the executive branch and coaching ranks, it’s possible consensus on signing the talented forward could change.
The Knicks need shooting at the forward position, Wood is young enough to match the competitive timeline of their other developing players, so he’s definitely a top potential free agent target.