Knicks Waive Bruce Brown to Keep James Wiseman and Avoid Second Apron

The New York Knicks waived veteran guard Bruce Brown on Saturday, October 17, finalizing the team’s roster ahead of the 2026-27 regular season opener. The move allows former number-two overall pick James Wiseman to secure the 14th spot on the 15-man roster, according to reporting from TSN.

The decision to part ways with Brown was largely dictated by the NBA’s restrictive “second apron” luxury tax threshold. According to Hoops Rumors, keeping both veterans would have pushed the Knicks over the punitive second apron cap, triggering severe financial penalties and trade restrictions. By waiving Brown, the Knicks maintain proximity to a $3.2 million hard cap, preserving future flexibility for the defending champions.

's preseason performance and physical size earned him the 14th spot on the roster.

Wiseman Earns Frontcourt Role

Wiseman solidified his place in head coach Mike Brown’s rotation during the final week of the preseason. His standout performance came on October 13 against the Toronto Raptors, where he recorded 18 points and 10 rebounds while shooting 7-of-8 from the field.

The competition for the final frontcourt spots was cleared significantly after Drew Eubanks suffered a torn pectoral muscle. Eubanks was subsequently waived along with Tony Bradley and Ochai Agbaji during the final roster trim. Wiseman’s combination of size and his recent preseason efficiency provided the frontcourt insurance the team prioritized over Brown’s perimeter versatility.

Brown, who signed with New York to provide veteran leadership and playoff experience, now enters the waiver wire. While his contract and the timing of his release make a mid-season return to the Knicks unlikely due to cap rules, he is expected to draw interest from contenders before the Monday waiver deadline.

Season Opener Outlook

The Knicks will begin their title defense on Tuesday, October 20, hosting the Philadelphia 76ers. The matchup marks the debut of the revamped 76ers roster featuring LeBron James. For New York, the game will be the first official look at a rotation that now features Wiseman as the primary developmental big man.

With the roster now set at 14 players, the Knicks have the option to leave the 15th spot open to maximize their distance from the second apron or potentially sign a player to a 10-day contract later in the season as needs arise.

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