Knicks decline option for power forward, but will it help them keep Isaiah Hartenstein?

Following their acquisition of Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets, the New York Knicks have been actively managing their roster, making crucial decisions on player options.

Decisions on Player Options

Recently, the Knicks opted to pick up the option for center Jericho Sims. However, they chose to decline the option on Precious Achiuwa on Saturday. Achiuwa, who was eligible for a $6.3 million qualifying offer, found himself out of the team’s financial plans as this amount would have significantly impacted the Knicks’ ability to offer a competitive contract to Isaiah Hartenstein, a vital component of their team dynamics last season.

Achiuwa’s Role and Future Prospects

Achiuwa was thrust into a larger role due to injuries and played in 74 games between Toronto and New York last season. He averaged 7.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 assists, shooting 50.1% from the field. While Achiuwa proved to be a solid depth piece, his price point was deemed too high by the Knicks, who are focusing financial resources on retaining Hartenstein. It remains possible that Achiuwa could return on a cheaper deal, though he may seek a more lucrative contract elsewhere.

Hartenstein’s Free Agency and Knicks’ Salary Cap Strategy

Isaiah Hartenstein is expected to command a salary of $18 million or more in free agency, with teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder potentially entering the bidding. To accommodate such a contract, the Knicks are aiming to stay under the first salary apron of $178 million and target the second apron at $189.5 million, which provides greater financial flexibility. This may involve trading Mitchell Robinson to free up his $14.3 million cap hit or offloading smaller contracts.

Building a Contender and Maintaining Team Chemistry

With the acquisition of Bridges and the extension of OG Anunoby, the Knicks have assembled one of the deepest and most promising rosters in the NBA. Their focus now shifts to maintaining team chemistry and leveraging their depth to challenge top contenders like the Boston Celtics next season.

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Notably, Mikal Bridges brings added synergy to the team, sharing a Villanova background with key players Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart, which could enhance team dynamics further. The Knicks’ strategy revolves around building a cohesive unit capable of making a deep playoff run.