Knicks Keep James Wiseman, Waive Bruce Brown to Finalize Roster

The New York Knicks have kept James Wiseman on their regular-season roster and waived Bruce Brown as they finalised their squad for 2026-27 on Saturday, 17 October. The decision gives the reigning NBA champions another option at centre behind Karl-Anthony Towns.

Wiseman, a former No. 2 overall pick, appeared regularly in New York’s preseason games. He averaged 8.0 points and 4.3 rebounds across four appearances, helping secure his place on the regular-season roster as Brown was waived.

New York adds cover at centre

The Knicks needed to strengthen their centre rotation after Mitchell Robinson left in free agency for the Boston Celtics. They signed Andre Drummond to serve as their new backup to Towns, then brought in Wiseman on an Exhibit 9 training camp contract for additional depth.

New York now plans to convert Wiseman’s training camp deal into a league-minimum contract. He is expected to provide reserve cover rather than occupy a regular rotation role, but could see regular-season action as the Knicks manage minutes following their championship run.

Wiseman played only five games over the last two seasons in Indiana. His last season as a regular rotation player came in 2023-24 with Detroit, when he averaged 7.1 points and 5.3 rebounds in 63 appearances.

He was previously part of the Warriors’ plans to build for the future while remaining competitive. He struggled to produce at a high level and has faced defensive difficulties since entering the league, but his preseason performances persuaded Mike Brown to keep him in New York.

Brown faces search for another opportunity

Bruce Brown is now looking for an opportunity elsewhere after being waived. The veteran played all 82 games for the Denver Nuggets last season, averaging 7.9 points, 3.9 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game.

For Wiseman, the immediate task is to be ready when called upon for spot duty.