Knicks explore signing Keshad Johnson to fill backup center role
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 9, 2026, 12:13 PM
Last updated Aug 9, 2026
The New York Knicks are in search of a third-string big man after missing out on Jonas Valanciunas and seeing the Dallas Mavericks match their offer sheet for Moussa Cisse. Keshad Johnson is highlighted as a viable option from free agency, having recently parted ways with the Miami Heat. Johnson, known for winning the 2026 Dunk Contest, averaged 4.3 points and 1.9 rebounds last season and is seen as a potential fit to replace Mitchell Robinson's contributions. While Nick Richards is recommended as a primary target, there are concerns over the minutes he may receive with the Knicks. If Richards opts not to join, Johnson could be a strong second option for the Knicks’ roster needs before the season begins.
- •Knicks missed out on Jonas Valanciunas and Moussa Cisse.
- •Keshad Johnson is available after leaving the Miami Heat.
- •Johnson won the 2026 NBA Dunk Contest.
- •Nick Richards is viewed as a preferred option if available.
- •Knicks need to fill the center position before the season starts.
- 12:13 PMYahoo Sports — Knicks Urged To Fill Big Man Spot With 25-Year-Old Dunk Champion
"The New York Knicks are still without a third-string big man. The franchise struck out in its pursuit of Jonas Valanciunas earlier this summer. Things went from bad to worse when the Dallas Mavericks matched the Knicks’ offer sheet to Moussa Cisse shortly after.However, Tom Rende of Forbes believes that a potential solution to the […] The post Knicks Urged To Fill Big Man Spot With 25-Year-Old Dunk Champion appeared first on HEAVY.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days- NBA•Aug 9, 2026, 1:15 PMCoby White talks Charlotte Hornets' expectations ahead of 2026-27 season
- NBA•Aug 9, 2026, 1:00 PMMiles McBride Opens Up About Feeling of Knicks’ Championship
- NBA•Aug 9, 2026, 1:00 PMEvery St. Bonaventure player drafted by the Boston Celtics
- NBA•Aug 9, 2026, 12:02 PMPopular Insider Predicts Lakers Will Have To Trade Austin Reaves
- NBA•Aug 9, 2026, 11:59 AMLeBron James called ultimate 'difference maker' in shocking Kevin Durant comparison
- NBA•Aug 9, 2026, 10:30 AM‘Changed the Franchise Short-Term’ – NBA Analyst Details the Moment That Led to Jaylen Brown’s Blockbuster 76ers Move
