New York Knicks: Ranking 5 Replacements for Robin Lopez

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Indiana Pacers center Ian Mahinmi (28) defended by Toronto Raptors center Bismack Biyombo (8) during the second half of game four of the first round of the 2016 NBA Playoffs at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats Toronto 100-83

Apr 23, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers center Ian Mahinmi (28) defended by Toronto Raptors center Bismack Biyombo (8) during the second half of game four of the first round of the 2016 NBA Playoffs at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats Toronto 100-83. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 5: Ian Mahinmi

Ian Mahinmi, via Indianapolis Star reporter Candace Buckner, has expressed interest in staying with the team. Though, his fate rests with the organization and its new direction with Nate McMillan stepping into the head coaching position.

Mahinmi turns 30 at the beginning of next season. The Pacers drafted 6’11”, 243-pound Myles Turner as the No. 11 pick in the previous draft. He averaged 22.8 minutes per game in his rookie campaign. He’s due for an increase in minutes and usage. The 20-year-old center also provides a better threat on the offensive end.

Turner’s imminent emergence could force the team to part ways with Mahinmi, who’s 10 years older than Turner and less equipped to put up points. It’s the perfect situation for a Knicks team looking to invest in a decent talent without a costly long-term investment.

Mahinmi wouldn’t require a max deal. The Knicks could use him as a rental if none of the bigger names come to New York. Though offensively challenged, the10th-year pro provides rim protection and rebounding on both ends of the court.

Next: No. 4

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