The New York Knicks now have a viable backup to Robin Lopez. Lopez signed a free agent deal this summer with Knicks and now will have Kevin Seraphin as his right-hand man.
New York and the 25 year-old big man agreeed to terms on a contract for the 2015-16 season. The deal is estimated to be worth $2.8M and was first reported by Sheridan Hoops.
Seraphin, who has spent his whole NBA career with the Washington Wizards so far, was an unrestricted free agent this summer. Showing promise in his first few years, his inconsistent play led to decreased playing time and made the Wizards feel they didn't need the big man any more. Still a young player, Seraphin was left on the bench when it came to crunch time and the playoffs. Although he won't be on a better team, the 6'9" Frenchman will likely get more playing time.
His role on the team will be a purely backup role. Seraphin's inconsistency on defense is a reason on why he won't receive as many minutes. But he is a good offensive player; he shot 49% from the field and can finish around the rim.
The Knicks will be hoping that Seraphin can play up to more than a second-string role but the ceiling is low right now. Although he is young, his ineffectiveness on defense can be problematic. But if he can clean up his defense, then things could get better for Seraphin.
This another economically efficient move by Phil Jackson and the Knicks. They have put a decent team around Carmelo Anthony. They signed him and Robin Lopez this summer, adding to the team's big man depth. They drafted well, selecting both Jerian Grant and Kristaps Porzingas, who is more of a project than an immediate impact player. They also have some solid guards in Jose Calderon and Aaron Affalo. The Knicks can be more than the worst team in the NBA this season.
The Knickerbockers are still a long way away from the playoffs but progress has been made. Signing Seraphin for cheap could be a good deal for the Knicks this season.