The New York Knicks have two significant free agents seeking new contracts this off-season: OG Anunoby and Isaiah Hartenstein.
The Knicks Could Be Prioritizing OG Anunoby
Ideally, the Knicks would retain both players, but their focus may be on Anunoby, who is one of the league’s elite defenders and an underrated scoring threat. His impact was crucial during the playoffs before he suffered a hamstring injury in the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Indiana Pacers.
Isaiah Hartenstein’s Rising Stock
There is also evident interest in retaining Hartenstein, who emerged as a key playmaker from the center position when Mitchell Robinson sustained another injury. Reports have indicated that the Knicks are exploring trade options for Robinson, considering offloading his salary to allocate funds towards Hartenstein, a former second-round pick in 2017.
“Hartenstein, at this moment, is now generally expected to return to New York, as the Knicks have contacted opposing teams about moving Mitchell Robinson, sources said”
Via Yahoo’s Jake Fischer.
Currently, the expectation is that Hartenstein will stay with New York, having developed tremendous chemistry with his teammates this past season and clearly enjoying his role.
Over 75 games, Hartenstein averaged 25.3 minutes, scoring 7.8 points, grabbing 8.3 rebounds, and distributing 2.5 assists per game. He shot 64.4% from the field and averaged 1.1 blocks per game. Hartenstein’s unique ability to effectively pass the ball from a position not traditionally known for its playmaking stands out. Meanwhile, Robinson is a dedicated defender with less focus on scoring or assists.
Contract Negotiations and Market Interest
The Knicks can offer Hartenstein $16.4 million via his Early Bird Rights, but another team may exceed that amount. Rumors suggest that the Oklahoma City Thunder have shown interest in the big man, but New York recognizes his value to the team. If they are considering offloading Robinson, losing both centers would be inexcusable.
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Looking to the NBA Draft for Reinforcements
The front office may also look to the NBA Draft to bolster their roster. Zach Edey from Purdue represents an intriguing option. This past season in the Big Ten, as a senior, Edey averaged 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds, and two assists.
Although Edey likely fits the role of a drop coverage center at the next level due to his athletic limitations, his significant upside cannot be ignored. The 7-foot-4, two-time Big Ten Player of the Year has tremendous potential, and the Knicks might be persuaded to take a chance on him if he is available in the middle of the first round.