New York Knicks Waive Garrison Mathews, Jacob Toppin, and Justin Len Following Preseason
The new York Knicks have waived veteran guard Garrison Mathews, along with forwards Jacob Toppin and Justin Len, the team announced following the conclusion of the preseason.The moves bring the Knicks’ roster to 17 players as they prepare for the start of the regular season.
Mathews’ departure was first reported by Ian Begley of SNY. A signal of his potential release came during the game against the Hornets, where he did not play despite several key Knicks players – including OG Anunoby and Josh hart – being rested. Mathews,known for his shooting ability,placed fourth in three-point percentage during the 2023-24 season. He indicated to Stefan Bondy of the new york Post that he was “not interested” in playing for the Knicks’ G League affiliate in Westchester.
The roster cuts follow the unexpected retirement of fellow September signing Malcolm Brogdon, a nine-year NBA veteran. This creates more possibility for Landry Shamet, and allows the Knicks to retain young players Pacome Dadiet and Tyler Kolek, avoiding potential trades to reduce costs. Toppin and Len were considered long shots to make the final roster; Toppin played 19 games for the Knicks last season, while Len previously worked with head coach mike Brown in Sacramento. Both saw action primarily in late-game situations during the preseason, where New York went 4-1.
The Knicks currently have all three of their two-way contract slots filled with tosan Evbuomwan,Trey Jemison III,and Kevin McCullar Jr. The team has the financial versatility to add another player without triggering the second salary apron.
