Kenyon Martin Signs 10-Day Contract with Knicks

Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports After trading away Ronnie Brewer on Thursday during the trade deadline, the New York Knicks were able to open up a roster spot on their team, and it looks like they will use it as they immediately signed veteran power forward Kenyon Martin right after, according to ESPN New York. The 35-year-old played with the Los Angeles Clippers last season, in which he averaged about five points and four rebounds per game. Signed to a 10-day contract, the Knicks will see if he’s in shape, as they can definitely use his help on defense and rebounding, especially come playoff-time. “We’ve always liked Kenyon,” Knicks general manager Glen Grunwald said. “He’s a great competitor and a good defender and he’s played with number of our players on the Knicks (including Carmelo Anthony and J.R. Smith)…. We’re just looking forward to adding another good defender who can help us in our quest this season.” The Knicks currently stand at 32-19 in the Eastern Conference, but after a beatdown from the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night, they could lose out on their second-place seeding in the East. Along with that, health has been an uncertainty for the other veteran big men, Marcus Camby and Rasheed Wallace, which led to the signing of Martin. Grunwald says he will use Martin as “insurance” in case Camby and/or Wallace are unable to return to the court. Wallace has been out since December with a stress reaction in his left foot, while Camby has been out since January plantar fascia injury in his left foot.  Both of them look to come back to practice next Tuesday, but it’s uncertain when they’re ready to play in games. “Signing Kenyon is a bit of insurance for our bigs in case these tricky injuries continue to trouble Rasheed and Marcus,” Grunwald said. “But also that I think (Martin’s) a versatile defender and can play and defend three positions in the NBA. It gives us a little bit more depth and more insurance.” New York hopes Martin does well, so they can extend his contract through the season. “We’re hopeful that he’s going to show that he’s still got what it takes to be an NBA player,” Grunwald said of the 12-year pro. “I’m optimistic that he’s going to be able to come and play for us.” The post Kenyon Martin Signs 10-Day Contract with Knicks appeared first on FootBasket.