4:01pm: The Knicks have officially signed Henson to a 10-day deal, the team confirmed today in a press release.
1:55pm: The Knicks are expected to fill the final open spot on their 15-man roster by signing big man John Henson to a 10-day contract, according to Steve Popper of Newsday (Twitter link).
Henson, 30, has a reputation as a defensive-minded center and a solid rim protector. The former 14th overall pick spent last season with the Cavaliers and Pistons, averaging 5.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG, and 1.1 BPG in 40 games (15.0 MPG). However, he hadn’t caught on with a new team since becoming a free agent in November.
Multiple reports in late March indicated that Norvel Pelle and Henson were among the top options the Knicks were considering as they sought additional frontcourt depth in the wake of Mitchell Robinson‘s foot injury. New York ended up signing Pelle on Friday, but apparently that won’t stop the club from adding Henson as well.
With 13 players on full-season contracts and Pelle and Henson on 10-days deals, the Knicks will be able to evaluate both centers and assess whether to commit to either one on a second 10-day contract and/or a rest-of-season agreement.
It’s not clear what stage of COVID-19 testing Henson is at, but he’ll have to clear the NBA’s protocols before officially signing with the Knicks. When the deal is finalized, it’ll pay him $158,907 for 10 days, with the team taking on a $110,998 cap charge.
I can see what’s about to happen here, but whatever…
Could have something to do with Pelle, being their depth for an injury scenario, dislocating his finger.
Hahaha. Al incoming in 3….2….1….
Rofl honestly though, Henson has always had really incredible defensive ability/potential. Was always intrigued by his skillset early on. Has been inconsistent, but also has had inconsistent opportunities/opportunities in the right situations. Arguably should have been on a team already. Again, I doubt both stay. I see this more as making sure to have that depth piece I mentioned, with multiple teams having roster spots to fill in these coming days, and potentially wanting to add a big themselves.
Well well what do you know another big. Pelle is alright. Henson is a smart player UNC product. Really more a 4 to me. I guess Thibs is checking for best fit for playoffs. Our D is what has made us a decent team this yr. So yes we have to try and replace Mitch. Center by committee. Still rather Whiteside lol.
Just wondering, how does Noel and Gibson playing extremely well and the Knicks being 10-9 without Mitchell Robinson this year, and 15-16 with him fit into your narrative that they havent filled in more than fine enough?
I was kinda hoping Knicks would take a flyer on young guy, like Patton
Me too.
Henson is signed before Dedmon? Wow!