Knicks’ five-man roster battle may come down to one spot

The Knicks have signed five veterans to compete for what could amount to one available roster spot.

Yes, training camp should be lively.

As Luke Adams of Hoops Rumors laid out, Bruce Brown, John Konchar, Ochai Agbaji, Drew Eubanks and James Wiseman are all on non-guaranteed Exhibit 9 contracts.

New York has 13 guaranteed players and two open spots, but sits only $3.27 million below the second apron. Adding two minimum contracts, each carrying a cap hit of roughly $2.45 million, would push the Knicks over it.

Owner James Dolan reportedly wants to avoid that territory. Unless New York makes another move or temporarily accepts the accompanying restrictions, five camp invitees may be fighting for one chair.

Konchar appears to have the early edge. ESPN reported that he would have a “strong opportunity” to make the team, while Ian Begley of SNY similarly indicated he is well-positioned.

But the Knicks may need another center more than another wing. After losing Mitchell Robinson and Ariel Hukporti, they have Karl-Anthony Towns and Andre Drummond atop the depth chart. Eubanks offers dependable veteran insurance; Wiseman supplies considerably more intrigue and upside.

Brown, meanwhile, appeared in all 82 games for Denver last season and brings championship experience. Agbaji looks like the longest shot, although he is only two years removed from averaging 10.4 points and shooting 39.9 percent from deep for Toronto.

New York could create additional room by trading Pacome Dadiet or Tyler Kolek, although neither is likely to fetch much without an added incentive.

So the Knicks have options. What they do not have is room for everyone.