Unicaja is close to finalizing its frontcourt reinforcement. According to La Opinión de Málaga, the Málaga club is putting the finishing touches on the signing of Kevin Knox, which could become official within hours. The 27-year-old American, standing 6'8", arrives to cover the long-term absence of Tyson Pérez, who underwent Achilles tendon surgery in early October.
It will be his first experience in Europe. Knox has spent his entire career between the NBA and the G League, and his last stint was a non-guaranteed contract with the Orlando Magic. He played all four preseason games (6.3 points and 2.3 rebounds in 9.9 minutes) before being cut, along with Malaki Branham and JD Davison. Eurohoops had already reported Unicaja's interest two weeks ago.
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A wing who will play power forward
In the United States, Knox has played small forward, but his physique fits that of a European power forward: he measures one centimeter taller than Amine Noua, Málaga's primary power forward, and has also demonstrated rebounding ability. He's not the center of reference that Unicaja was seeking, but he would allow them to gain height, physicality, and an open-floor power forward, while also giving Txus Vidorreta more options on the perimeter.
A No. 9 draft pick who never settled
Knox arrived in the NBA with considerable fanfare: the New York Knicks selected him with the No. 9 pick in the 2018 draft. He failed to establish himself with any of his teams (Knicks, Hawks, Pistons in two stints, Trail Blazers, and Warriors), and last season he spent in the G League with the Chicago Bulls affiliate, where he averaged 18.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.4 assists.
With his arrival, Unicaja would have three non-EU players: Cameron Hunt, Matt Thomas, and Knox himself. The future of Thomas, who has already completed the first of his two-month contract and barely factors into Vidorreta's plans following Tyler Kalinoski's recovery, remains uncertain.