TORONTO — The Knicks are plotting an entrance strategy for 6-foot-10 big man Jeremy Tyler, hoping he can give them a youthful spark.
Knicks brass has seriously discussed re-signing Tyler this week to bolster their frontcourt, according to an NBA source. That would take advantage of the four-day break, after Saturday’s 115-100 loss in Toronto, by incorporating him in practice.
Tyler is playing for the Knicks’ D-League affiliate in Erie, Pa., but is an NBA free agent. The Knicks will take off Sunday and practice for three days before opening a three-game trip in San Antonio on Thursday.
“Nothing’s set in stone,’’ the NBA source said. There is a possibility of waiting until the Jan. 5 marker that allows 10-day contracts to be executed. With Tyler coming off a stress fracture in his foot, that would give the Knicks a chance to ensure he is fully healed.
The Knicks can sign Tyler to two 10-day contracts, then sign him for the rest of the season if they wish. If they sign him now, his contract would become fully guaranteed Jan. 10.
Tyler has played six games for Erie, averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds.
A rehabbing Tyler was cut by the Knicks at the end of training camp to make room on the 15-man roster for point guard J.R. Smith’s brother, Chris Smith, in a controversial move.
The Knicks would have to open up a roster spot by cutting a player, possibly Chris Smith, who has already pocketed the full guarantee of $472,000. If he’s cut, Smith can still play for Erie and the Knicks can monitor his development.
Andrea Bargnani was ready for the boos Saturday in his return to Toronto. He was booed consistently in the first two preseason games at Air Canada Centre, where he played seven seasons, and he heard jeers again, even louder Saturday. He finished with 12 points (5-of-11) and three rebounds in 18 minutes.
“It’s not the first time I get booed,’’ Bargnani said before the game. “It’s not the last time. I’ve been playing in Europe since I was 13. It’s not about the boos, it’s your life. You hear them. It’s not the first time. Not the last time.’’
Metta World Peace’s knee swelled up after his five-minute cameo Friday and he sat out Saturday’s game. He’s waiting for a blood-spinning procedure Jan. 6 on his arthritic knee.