As reported by Shams Charania of RealGM, the Knicks have signed free agent big Jason Smith to a one-year, $3.3 million deal. The Knicks used their full taxpayer mid-level exception to sign Smith.
Throughout his six-year career, Smith has served as a versatile reserve big man who can play both power forward and center. Smith has a very effective mid-range jump shot and can be used effectively in the pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop. His 16-20 foot jumper should help create floor spacing on the offensive end. Smith is a physical big man who will battle it out on the block and is an above-average rim protector.
The 28-year old has played with New Orleans for the past four years of his career. This year, Smith had his best statistical year – 9.7 points and 5.8 rebounds per game – cut short after undergoing surgery to remove loose cartilage from his right knee in February.
The addition of Jason Smith brings a physical 7-footer, with a versatile offensive game, to the Knicks front line. With the departure of Tyson Chandler, Smith has a chance at playing significant minutes next season. And of course, he may be best known for his tackle on Blake Griffin.