The Knicks may have been among the first movers of the summer in the trade market, but they still haven't solved all their problems. The trade to bring in Mikal Bridgesbut above all the extension of the contract ofOG Anunoby have significantly reduced their room for maneuver. A direct consequence of these wing-oriented choices, Isaiah Hartenstein went to collect the big check from Oklahoma City, $87 million over three years, while New York could only offer $72 million over four years at best. The departure of the German-American leaves a void at the center position, which will not be easy to fill.
With Mitchell RobinsonJericho Sims and the 58th pick of the last Draft Ariel Hukportithe “Big Apple” franchise currently has three professional pivots in its squad, but very few guarantees.
Mitchell Robinson has the caliber to be a starter, a status he had at the start of last season. But his repeated injuries, 172 regular season games missed in six seasons in the league, force the Knicks to have a quality plan B to withstand the shock. Jericho Sims like Ariel Hukporti are still tender to hope for a significant role. Which Isaiah Hartenstein knew how to perfectly fill with his toughness, his defensive and rebounding presence, as well as an underestimated offensive contribution, particularly in ball circulation. How will Tom Thibodeau now be able to compensate for his loss?
Recruit a free pivot
A rare commodity this summer, the “big men” have almost all found takers, like Isaiah Hartenstein, but also the extension of Nic Claxton at the Nets or the signing of Jonas Valanciunas at the Wizards. Even rotation players like Andre Drummond (Sixers), Goga Bitadze And Mo Wagner (Magic), even Drew Eubanks (Jazz) were picked up within the first two official days of the offseason.
There are only crumbs left, or players who have not yet proven themselves in the NBA, with the exception of Dario Saricwith a very different profile from Isaiah Hartenstein or Mitchell Robinson. The most logical option would be to re-sign Precious Achiuwawho arrived as part of the OG Anunoby trade during the season and started 18 times with New York. A very mobile ball of energy, capable of properly protecting the hoop, the Nigerian is more of a plan B for want of anything better. His lack of centimeters (2m03) limits his ability to bother the best opposing pivots. But the Knicks will have to position themselves quickly because Precious Achiuwa is of interest ” several candidates for the title ” assured SNY reporter Ian Begley.
Set up an exchange
With a payroll already full, New York will have to be inventive in the event of a trade. HoopsHype advances an interest from the Knicks for Walker Kesslerthe Jazz sophomore. Among the nice surprises of his rookie class, he marked time last season, losing his place as an undisputed starter in Utah (8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.4 blocks in 23.3 minutes).
The 2m13 player has only been a starter 22 times and ” Jazz could accept calls after being considered not for sale last year » adds HoopsHype.
It will still be necessary to convince Danny Ainge to let him go, which would certainly cost in draft picks, while Walker Kessler's rookie contract is financially light (barely $3 million in 2024-2025). The Knicks have three “first round” picks next season, but from trades and with significant protections: places 1 to 10 with the Wizards and 1 to 13 with the Pistons. HoopsHype also mentions the track Nick Richardsinteresting last season with the Hornets (9.7 points, 8 rebounds in 26.3 minutes).
Play smaller
With its host of players in positions 2 to 4, New York does not lack reserves to complete its starting five, and see Julius Randle be shifted as a pivot. The Knicks largely revealed themselves last season while their interior was on the infirmary. His association with OG Anunoby remains to be tested for example and could bring an additional dimension to the Knicks' game. Julius Randle has already been used in sequences as a five in “small ball” when OG Anunoby is used to defending on all positions, even taking care of Joel Embiid, admittedly physically diminished, in the first round of the last playoffs.
Replacing the former Laker and Pelican wouldn't be without risk, though. Julius Randle isn't a great defender or guard. And the idea of a small five isn't one that Tom Thibodeau favors, unless he has to. The fact is, when you think about playing smaller, you're going to have to sacrifice something. ” explained the coach after Mitchell Robinson's injury last December. ” I think you can do it in a short period of time, but not in a long period of time. All the cards are on the table, and it's based on who our opponent has on the floor that you really determine who you play. »
Julius Randle as a pivot, it's the Knicks' tough and tenacious defense at the end of last season that should be partly rethought. And if Josh Hart can lend a hand on the rebound, the alternative would have its limits against teams lining up a more traditional racket.
