Ahead of Wednesday’s preseason tip against the Washington Wizards, the Knicks announced they have waived Isaiah Roby and Jaylen Martin.
Roby, 25, was on a non-guaranteed NBA deal and played in Tuesday’s preseason game against the Boston Celtics. In 16 minutes, Roby shot 4-of-6 for 11 points, three rebounds and one assist.
The Illinois native is entering his fifth NBA season. After being drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the second round of the 2019 NBA Draft, he made his debut with the Oklahoma City Thunder where he played just three games.
He would get more playing time over the next two seasons with the Thunder where he averaged 22 minutes and nine points a game. Last season, Roby played 42 games with the San Antonio Spurs where he averaged 11 minutes and four points a game.
Martin, 19, was an undrafted rookie on a two-way contract with the Knicks and played just three minutes this preseason where he didn’t get a shot off.
“The worst part, especially because of the job that they did, both are very deserving and are great kids and great workers,” Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said of the move prior to Wednesday’s game. “It’s a tough call but you do what you think is best for the team.”
With the moves, the Knicks have one two-way spot open as well as three full-time roster spots. Wednesday is New York’s final preseason game before they start the 2023-24 season against the Celtics on Wednesday, Oct. 25.