Knicks’ Surprising Free Agent Target Revealed: What Almost Changed Their Entire Season Plan

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes when an NBA team like the Knicks plots out its roster moves? This summer, instead of snagging a big man like Thomas Bryant—an eight-season veteran with Finals experience—the Knicks took a hard pass, choosing instead to bolster their wing and backcourt depth with players like Jordan Clarkson and Malcolm Brogdon. It’s a curious decision, considering Bryant’s knack for solid frontcourt defense and his journeyman grind across teams like the Pacers, Nuggets, and Lakers. But hey—sometimes building around shooters and ball handlers makes more sense than chasing size alone. What does it say about New York’s priorities? Let’s dive into the chess game the Knicks played this offseason—and why a change at the six-footer spot might’ve tipped the scales differently.

Indiana Pacers v New York Knicks - Game Five — (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

The New York Knicks sought some roster additions this summer, adding players like Jordan Clarkson and Malcolm Brogdon.

But they could have taken a different route and focused on getting a big man instead.

A new report from Jake Fischer said the Knicks thought about going after Thomas Bryant, but ultimately looked to improve “wing & backcourt depth.”

“There is another vet Knicks considered signing in recent days. League sources say the Knicks weighed bringing in Thomas Bryant after team officials visited with the big man. New York ultimately decided to prioritize wing & backcourt depth,” per Jake Fischer.

Jake Fischer: "There is another vet Knicks considered signing in recent days. League sources say the Knicks weighed bringing in Thomas Bryant after team officials visited with the big man. New York ultimately decided to prioritize wing & backcourt depth" https://t.co/GpRneCA02D pic.twitter.com/txVfrmFS6B

— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) September 12, 2025

Bryant just finished his eighth season in the NBA, playing for the Indiana Pacers and going all the way to the Finals.

Before that, he was with the Los Angeles Lakers, Washington Wizards, Denver Nuggets (where he was part of their championship squad), and Miami Heat.

He has had a tough time staying in one spot, but Bryant has impressed fans with his frontcourt abilities.

Last season, he produced 6.5 points and 3.8 rebounds across 66 games.

He has rarely been a starter, but has been handy at times for the teams he has played for.

The Knicks surely saw him as someone who could be in their second unit, a key asset who could come off the bench and create strong defense.

But in the end, they decided that they wanted talent who could play on the wing, shoot, and support the backcourt.

Bryant will continue to get attention, and it looks like he will be one of those players who travels around and chips in to multiple teams throughout his career.

The post Knicks Reportedly ‘Considered’ Signing Free Agent Big Man appeared first on The Cold Wire.