Knicks Lose Prized Big Man Creating Massive Hole at Center
Heading into the offseason there was an argument about who the New York Knicks' biggest priority was to resign between OG Anunoby and Isaiah Hartenstein. After the Knicks made a move to trade for Mikal Bridges, the biggest priority may have been resigning Hartenstein as the Knicks acquired another talented wing that could've replaced Anunoby.
However, the team brought back Anunoby right before the NBA Draft a move in which no one can complain about.
This, however, left the Knicks with only a four-year, $72 million contract available to offer Hartenstein, which made it tough as several contenders pushed for his services.
The easiest way to beat the Knicks for Hartenstein for the Oklahoma Thunder was to make a massive offer, which they did by signing the center to a three-year, $87 million deal.
BREAKING: Free agent center Isaiah Hartenstein plans to sign a three-year, $87 million deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Hartenstein departs the Knicks for an enormous contract and gives OKC a new anchor inside. pic.twitter.com/DptmkuaP3v
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2024
The Knicks now have a massive hole at center as only Mitchell Robinson and Jericho Sims are on the roster, both of whom the Knicks have reportedly shopped in trade talks. The Knicks have seen some of their top replacements come off the board as Jonas Valenciunas and Andre Drummond signed deals in the opening hours of free agency.
Nonetheless, a few attractive options are available for the Knicks in free agency. The team could look for a high-upside player in former second-overall pick James Wiseman or former first-round picks Mo Wagner or Goga Bitadize.
Knicks May Be One Center Away
When you look at this Knicks' roster on paper it appears they only need a reliable option at center. The Knicks still have a few moves they could make as they have nearly $16 million in second apron space.
The team has a few trade chips they could move with Robinson, Sims, and Deuce McBride. The coming days may decide how strong of a contender the Knicks are in the East as Leon Rose looks to replace Hartenstein.
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