With training camp getting closer and the free-agent market still holding a few notable names, John Konchar has emerged as a player worth watching. The veteran is now available after Minnesota waived him, and a handful of playoff-caliber teams are reportedly circling.
Konchar was part of a recent trade that sent Josh Green and cash to the Utah Jazz for Cody Williams and Konchar. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Timberwolves were expected to keep Williams, the No. 10 pick in 2024, and waive-and-stretch Konchar’s guaranteed salary. As Charania noted, “Saturday is the final day to waive a player and stretch out his guaranteed salary over multiple seasons,” and Minnesota ultimately moved on from Konchar after using the deal to create room to pursue Jonathan Kuminga.
Once the waiver became official, Konchar hit the open market. “The Timberwolves announce that they have just waived John Konchar," NBA insider Brett Siegel wrote.
At this stage, Konchar is said to be taking his time and looking for the right situation. He wants to land with a winner, and that has put him on the radar of several contenders. The New York Knicks, Miami Heat and Toronto Raptors have all been mentioned as teams showing interest.
“John Konchar is one of the top free agents available and has drawn interest, league sources say, from Miami, New York, Orlando and Toronto,” The Stein Line’s Marc Stein wrote.
The Knicks stand out because they still have two roster spots to fill. Konchar could be a useful depth addition for a team chasing another title, especially with New York being described as the defending NBA champions in the reporting. He has earned $21 million over the course of his career, and the belief is that New York’s patience in the market could pay off if it lands him.
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