Overview
- New York finalized a 14-player group at Saturday's deadline by releasing Mathews, Len and Ryan ahead of Wednesday’s opener against Cleveland.
- Shamet, who contributed off the bench last season, secured the lone veteran-minimum slot available to the Knicks.
- Team finances under the second-apron hard cap prevented carrying a second veteran minimum without a cost-cutting trade.
- Brogdon’s midweek retirement reduced the immediate roster squeeze but left New York prioritizing fit and familiarity.
- Mathews impressed in preseason and is expected to draw waiver interest for his shooting, while rookie Mohamed Diawara appears set for the opening roster and the club carries one open standard spot.