As the NBA off-season unfolds, the New York Knicks are faced with strategic decisions that could shape their future. Rather than chasing another superstar-level talent, the Knicks might find greater value in retaining the core pieces that have already demonstrated potential and chemistry when healthy.
Knicks’ Off-Season Strategy: Focus on Retention
The Knicks’ past season was marked by injuries that limited the joint appearances of Julius Randle and OG Anunoby, yet glimpses of their potential together were promising. The off-season strategy should focus on re-signing key players like Anunoby and Isaiah Hartenstein, who have both proven their worth on the court.
Isaiah Hartenstein, in particular, has attracted interest from teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, who might offer him a deal worth over $80 million. Despite this, the Knicks, through Hartenstein’s Early Bird Rights, can offer him $16.2 million annually. If necessary, the Knicks could make roster adjustments, such as trading Mitchell Robinson or cutting Bojan Bogdanovic, to free up additional salary cap space to match competing offers.
Hartenstein’s impact was especially notable when he stepped up during Robinson’s absence, contributing significantly with averages of 7.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists during the regular season, and improving to 8.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in the playoffs. His emergence as one of the league’s top playmaking big men solidifies his importance to the team.
OG Anunoby is another crucial figure for the Knicks. At 26 years old and in his prime, Anunoby’s defensive prowess was invaluable, and his absence due to a late-season hamstring injury was felt deeply during the playoffs. The Knicks have the financial flexibility to secure his services long-term, with the ability to offer up to $245 million over five years if needed.
Strategic Considerations and Building Depth
While acquiring high-profile players like Devin Booker or Kevin Durant might seem attractive, such moves could disrupt the team chemistry that is vital for playoff success. Instead, the Knicks should focus on building depth through the draft and careful acquisitions that complement the existing roster.
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The Knicks’ management, led by President Leon Rose, should simplify their approach. The existing roster has the potential to contend for a championship, provided the team can stay healthy and peak at the right time. Ensuring that Hartenstein and Anunoby are secured on new contracts will stabilize the team’s core, allowing them to build on the foundation they have established rather than overhauling it in pursuit of uncertain upgrades.