Knicks Trade Rumor Links New York to Eastern Conference Center

The New York Knicks continue to sniff around for potential roster upgrades ahead of the February 7 trade deadline. After nailing the OG Anunoby trade that helped them go on a run to go all the way up to fifth-seed in the Eastern Conference, the Knicks are reportedly still active on the trade market.

The newest name on New York's radar is Washington Wizards center Daniel Gafford.

Knicks Rumors: New York Interested In Daniel Gafford

As Matt Moore of Action Network reports, the Knicks are interested in Daniel Gafford instead of "shopping for another star."

Not going all-in for a star makes sense for the Knicks. First of all, there is not a star on the market that would be a game-changer for New York. Secondly, the Knicks are already playing well with their new starting lineup, there is no need to rock the boat.

Trading for a center like Gafford is also a smart move. After losing their starting center Mitchell Robinson, likely for the season, the Knicks have extremely limited frontcourt depth.

They have to rely on Isaiah Hartenstein to play over 40 minutes a game at times. As good as he has been all season, he is not used to playing such extensive minutes and how sustainable his current workload is is a concern.

Therefore, another big man is certainly needed. Daniel Gafford is the type of player Tom Thibodeau likes. He can protect the rim, grab offensive rebounds, and finish around the basket in the pick-and-roll. He would allow the Knicks to play the same way when Hartenstein sits or isn't available.

Considering that the Washington Wizards are rebuilding, Gafford shouldn't be too difficult to get. It is the kind of minor move on the margins that could pay large dividends.

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