The New York Knicks are targeting guard-forward John Konchar and forward-center Drew Eubanks to shore up bench frontcourt depth ahead of training camp. As defending NBA champions, the team operates under strict second apron limits of $221 million set by owner James Dolan, restricting their roster additions to veteran minimum contracts.
As the New York Knicks prepare for training camp, front office decision-makers are actively evaluating options to address a glaring need for frontcourt depth off the bench. While the roster remains guard-heavy with limited traditional wings or bigs, at least some members of the organization have set their sights on specific veteran talent available on the market, according to reporting by SNY.
John Konchar and Drew Eubanks Emerge on New York’s Radar
Among the players drawing interest from New York decision-makers are John Konchar and Drew Eubanks. Konchar recently hit the market after being waived and stretched following a trade to Minnesota. Over a seven-year NBA career, he has built a reputation as a strong rebounder/defender/offensive connector who can knock down perimeter shots.
Eubanks, a 6-foot-10 veteran, brings alternative frontcourt experience, though his 2025-26 season with Sacramento was cut short in March following surgery to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb. Should the Knicks pursue him, Eubanks would presumably compete alongside a few other big men for the team’s third center spot.
Salary Constraints Under the Second Apron
Adding veteran help comes with strict financial boundaries. As the defending NBA champions, the Knicks have enough financial flexibility under the league’s second apron to sign another player to a veteran minimum contract. However, the club currently lacks the salary space required to add two players on veteran minimum deals.
Team owner James Dolan has made it clear that the franchise will not exceed the second apron team salary threshold of $221 million for the season. As ESPN analyst Bobby Marks notes, operating above the second apron severely limits the roster-building tools available to front offices across the league.
Roster Questions Surrounding Brunson and McBride
Beyond frontcourt reinforcements, the team faces questions regarding player recovery and trade speculation. Jalen Brunson remains focused on an intensive rehabilitation program following his offseason surgery. With an initial recovery timetable pointing toward a return to basketball activities within six to eight weeks, analysts expect the Knicks to manage his workload carefully.
Players who carried heavy minutes during the team’s grueling title run are expected to log lighter minutes during the upcoming preseason schedule. That cautious approach could open the door for younger roster pieces like Mohamed Diawara, Tyler Kolek, and Pacome Dadiet to secure extended playing time.
Meanwhile, guard Miles McBride continues to draw external questions regarding his future in New York given his expiring contract, the team’s apron constraints, and existing depth in the backcourt.
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