The New York Knicks have been one of many largest tales of the NBA offseason. Following their sturdy efficiency final season, expectations are excessive. A blockbuster commerce for Mikal Bridges and extensions for key gamers like Jalen Brunson have been optimistic strikes. Nevertheless, there are nonetheless areas the group wants to handle.
Whereas it may not be an pressing challenge, a deep playoff run would require the Knicks to strengthen their frontcourt depth. Particularly, their big-man rotation lacks depth, with Jericho Sims as the one possibility behind Mitchell Robinson.
Robinson had probably the greatest seasons of his profession final yr, and the Knicks will depend on comparable manufacturing. Nevertheless, the backup heart place stays a priority.
After shedding Isaiah Hartenstein to a cope with the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder, the Knicks want choices. Thankfully, there are just a few gamers who could possibly be out there. Listed below are three that might make sense for the Knicks’ present roster.
The Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler has been a formidable defender early in his profession. Whereas his second yr didn’t deliver the leap many anticipated, he stays a stable contributor.
As a possible backup for New York, Kessler could possibly be a perfect match, significantly as a substitute for Hartenstein. Although he didn’t take a significant step ahead, Kessler is a top quality rim protector and rim runner.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Walker Kessler, Utah Jazz, New York Knicks Updates
Final season, regardless of falling wanting expectations, Kessler nonetheless posted stable numbers. In simply over 22 minutes per recreation, he averaged 8 factors, 7.5 rebounds, and a couple of.5 blocks. His defensive affect makes him a robust candidate for the Knicks’ backup heart spot.
Jonas Valanciunas is another choice the Knicks may probe for the backup heart function. Whereas not as sturdy defensively as Kessler, Valančiūnas brings an enormous, bruising presence within the paint.
Offensively, he provides a mixture of inside scoring and a few three-point taking pictures. It’s anticipated that the Washington Wizards will commerce him earlier than the deadline, after signing him to a team-friendly deal to amass property.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jonas Valanciunas, Washington Wizards, New York Knicks Updates
Valanciunas largest upside for New York is his rebounding. A profession double-digit rebounder, he can maintain his personal on the boards, each defensively and offensively. Whereas his protection isn’t elite, the Knicks’ sturdy perimeter defenders may assist reduce his limitations.
Clint Capela from the Atlanta Hawks is one other identify the Knicks may contemplate. With Atlanta going via a retooling section, Capela could possibly be one of many first gamers moved in a commerce. His rebounding and rim-running can be precious property for New York, even when his talent set overlaps with Robinson.
Defensively, Capela is a pressure, having completed second in Defensive Participant of the 12 months voting just some seasons in the past. He’s a constant double-double menace, averaging round 12 factors and 12 rebounds per recreation during the last seven years.
Including that stage of consistency off the bench can be a big improve for the Knicks, filling the hole left by Hartenstein and finishing the roster.