Key Highlights
- The New York Knicks have waived Alex Len, Garrison Mathews, and Matt Ryan after their preseason finale.
- Garrison Mathews’ unexpected departure is notable due to his sharpshooting abilities and previous performance in the NBA.
- The roster adjustments come as the Knicks prepare for the start of their regular season against Cleveland.
- With 17 players on the current roster, the team has room to add another player within the next two weeks without going into a salary cap restriction.
The Unexpected Departures: A Close Look at the Knicks’ Roster Moves
The New York Knicks have made significant changes to their roster by waiving three players after their preseason finale. This move has left fans and analysts questioning the team’s strategy as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Alex Len, Garrison Mathews, and Matt Ryan Depart
Three key players—Alex Len, Garrison Mathews, and Matt Ryan—have been waived by the Knicks. Among them, Garrison Mathews’ departure is particularly noteworthy due to his sharpshooting abilities and recent performance during the 2023-24 season where he ranked fourth in three-point percentage.
Mathews was a free agent signing who competed for a spot in the primary rotation. Despite his impressive shooting, he did not play in the final game against the Charlotte Hornets, raising questions about his future with the team. Mathews stated that he was not interested in playing for the Knicks’ G League affiliate in Westchester.
Impact on the Team and Future Plans
The departure of these players comes at a crucial time as the Knicks are preparing to face their first regular season game against Cleveland. The roster now stands at 17 men, with the team having the flexibility to add another player within the next two weeks without incurring additional financial obligations.
While Mathews’ departure was unexpected, the Knicks have already made other moves that secure key positions. Malcolm Brogdon’s retirement means that incumbent depth star Landry Shamet will fill a critical role. Additionally, young homegrown talents Pacome Dadiet and Tyler Kolek remain on the roster.
Analysis of the Roster Adjustments
The decision to waive Len and Ryan was likely due to their limited roles in late-game situations during the preseason. Both players have familiarity with head coach Mike Brown, as they previously worked together in Sacramento. However, their contributions were not enough to secure a spot on the final roster.
With this move, the Knicks appear to be focusing on building a team around key veterans and younger talents who can contribute immediately. The flexibility to add another player could also indicate that the team is still looking for additional depth or specific skills they might need for the upcoming season.
Conclusion
The New York Knicks’ roster adjustments reflect strategic decisions as the team prepares for their first game of the 2025-26 NBA season. While the departures of Alex Len, Garrison Mathews, and Matt Ryan may come as a surprise to some fans, they are part of the ongoing process of building a competitive squad. As the regular season approaches, all eyes will be on how these changes impact the team’s performance.
