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3 Centers the New York Knicks Should Target to Replace Isaiah Hartenstein

Despite some of the top options coming off the board, there are still a few attractive options the Knicks could sign to replace Isaiah Hartenstein.

By Nicholas Rome

May 14, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) rebounds against Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin (1) during the second half during game five of the second round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
May 14, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) rebounds against Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin (1) during the second half during game five of the second round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports / Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
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The New York Knicks had two main priorities this off-season after their trade for Mikal Bridges and that was to re-sign OG Anunoby and Isaiah Hartenstein. The team chose to handle Anunoby first which cost them Hartenstein as he cashed in on a massive deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Knicks are now left with few choices to replace Hartenstein, however, there are a few targets that could fill the void left by Hartenstein's departure.

3. Precious Achiuwa - New York Knicks

If the Knicks want to continue to keep the pieces in place from this past season, the team should seriously consider re-signing Precious Achiuwa. While with the New York Knicks, Achiuwa was able to do a little bit of everything, becoming a viable defender while at times providing a scoring presence.

Bringing Achiuwa back won't cost the Knicks a ton while he can also backup Mitchell Robinson or give the team a viable option at power forward.

2. Mo Wagner - Orlando Magic

Here, the New York Knicks take a chance on a former first-round pick in Orlando Magic big man Moritz Wagner. This season was arguably the best of Wagner's career as he averaged 10.9 PPG, 4.3 RPG, and 1.2 APG. Offensively, Wagner has a ton of upside as he's a 60% shooter, shooting 82% from the free throw line, and 33% from three.

It'll be tough for the Knicks if they want to lure Wagner away from Orlando as his brother remains an integral part of the Magic. The Knicks can offer Wagner the biggest role of his career while giving him potential championship upside. In terms of salary, Wagner won't command a ton but, the Knicks may also be able to sign him to a multi-year deal.

1. James Wiseman - Detroit Pistons

The Knicks in all likelihood should take a serious look at taking a flyer on James Wiseman. The former second-overall pick hasn't been a good fit anywhere, as the Warriors and Pistons weren't the best fits for Wiseman. For his career, Wiseman is a 56% shooter while scoring 7.1 points per game.

Landing Wiseman would give the Knicks a high-upside player who can easily develop into a key cog. James Wiseman likely won't command more than the mid-level exception which can help the Knicks in staying under the vaunted second apron. If the Knicks do choose to sign Wiseman, they should push for a multi-year deal as Tom Thibodeau's system continues to help big men have career years.

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