Die-hard Phoenix Suns fans will remember the name Alex Len quite well. The Ukranian big man was selected fifth overall by the Suns back in the 2013 NBA Draft, and he was beloved by much of the fanbase despite never really living up to expectations. Now, Len may potentially find himself waived by the New York Knicks following training camp.
Alex began his professional career overseas with Dnipro in Ukraine before playing two seasons at the University of Maryland. He was then taken as a lottery pick with a decent amount of excitement surrounding him and what he could become in the NBA. After spending the first five seasons of his NBA career in Phoenix, Len became a journeyman.
As of this writing, he has played for the Suns, Atlanta Hawks, Sacramento Kings, Toronto Raptors, Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors, Los Angeles Lakers and is currently playing with the Knicks on an Exhibit-9 contract.
Many are speculating that Alex could end up being waived following training camp. It doesn't exactly feel like he has a very strong possibility of making New York's roster, especially after his limited impact in a shorter stint with the Lakers last season.
Alex Len will likely be waived by the Knicks
The unfortunate reality is that Len's best days as an NBA player are simply behind him at this point. Expecting him to provide a reasonable impact on any squad is probably a bit unrealistic right now. In 10 games in Los Angeles last season, he averaged just 2.2 points while only getting on the floor for 12.2 minutes per night.
It's those kind of numbers that are often indicative of a guy on his way out of the league. Alex's role has been decreasing for several years now, and while he can still show out at training camp and change his circumstances, it certainly doesn't seem likely.
Sons fans who have positive memories of Len may want to hold on to hope for their team's former player. But the truth is it's been a few seasons since Alex was truly a difference-maker. Len has struggled on defense, isn't a great rebounder at this stage in the game, and is simply going to have a hard time making any team's roster, unfortunately.
The most obvious outcome is that Alex Len doesn't end up making New York's roster this season. Given his age and some tough competition, it wouldn't be a surprise at all if he's let go, and given the chance to chase another opportunity elsewhere.