When the New York Knicks signed Dwayne Bacon after he was waived by the Orlando Magic, he appeared to be a good bet to make their 15-man roster for the start of the regular season.

But Bacon actually signed a one-year, non-guaranteed Exhibit 10 deal despite being a starter for the Magic last season.

Bacon's contract is similar to what an undrafted or second round player signs. While Bacon is a CAA client, sources say the Knicks are taking a flier on Bacon because of Tom Thibodeau's close friend Steve Clifford who coached him with the Charlotte Hornets and Magic.

The Knicks could have their final roster spot come down to Bacon and Luca Vildoza. 

“Bacon is a 2-3, can score some but is undisciplined and lacks basketball IQ,’’ one longtime NBA scout told The Post. “Clifford liked him better than I would have expected. That likely has a lot to do with why the Knicks signed him. I’m certain Clifford recommended him to Thibs, but he’s more scorer than shooter and needs the ball in his hands to score."