NY Knicks: 1 free agent target on every Central division team

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 28: Christian Wood #35 of the Detroit Pistons reacts to a three point shot against the Phoenix Suns during the second half of the NBA game at Talking Stick Resort Arena on February 28, 2020 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Pistons defeated the Suns 113-111. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2020 NBAE. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MARCH 08: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Christian Wood #35 of the Detroit Pistons in action against Taj Gibson #67 of the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on March 08, 2020 in New York City. The Knicks defeated the Pistons 96-84. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

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.