Knicks Seek Reinforcements at Center After Losing Hartenstein
Following the loss of Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder on a three-year, $87 million deal, the New York Knicks find themselves in need of additional support at the center position. Mitchell Robinson remains their primary starter, but his injury history makes relying on him a risky move.
Robinson’s Injury Concerns and Contract Situation
Robinson, 26, has only played over 70 games once in his career, featuring in just 31 last season. He averaged 5.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.1 blocks, and shot .575 from the field. While he is an elite defensive player, his inconsistency is a concern. Robinson was knocked out of the playoffs after one series against the Philadelphia 76ers, leaving the Knicks vulnerable against the Pacers.
Robinson has a $14.3 million cap hit this season and a $12.9 million cap hit for the 2025-26 season. The Knicks don’t need the additional funds to bring Hartenstein back, so moving Robinson would be more about swapping assets with an eye on the future.
Exploring Trade Options with the Detroit Pistons
The Knicks may explore a trade with the Detroit Pistons, who could benefit from more experience and scoring potential next season.
Here’s a look at a proposed mock trade between the Knicks and Pistons via The Athletic:
Pistons receive: Mitchell Robinson, Miles McBride, a 2025 first-round pick (via Detroit), and multiple future second-round picks
Knicks receive: Jalen Duren and Jaden Ivey
Assessing the Trade Components
This proposal would see the Knicks trading Robinson, McBride, a 2025 first-round pick, and multiple second-round picks. McBride, who is on a favorable contract, averaged 8.3 points last season and 11 points during the playoffs. He is also a solid defensive player, which boosted his value.
Potential Benefits of Acquiring Duren and Ivey
In return, the Knicks would get Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren, two players with significant potential. Duren, a 20-year-old rebounding machine, averaged 13.8 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 2.4 assists over 61 games last season. His cap hit is $4.5 million next season and $6.5 million for 2025-26 via a club option, making him a cost-efficient and valuable addition.
Ivey, who averaged 15.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists last season over 77 games, offers plenty of potential off the bench. His cap hit is $8 million next season and $10.1 million for 2025-26 via a club option.
Strategic Considerations for the Knicks
From New York’s perspective, trading for Duren and Ivey might be seen as an overpay, but Duren’s long-term potential is significant. The Pistons, on the other hand, would receive a solid big man in Robinson, a developed scorer in McBride, and multiple draft picks to aid their rebuilding process around Cade Cunningham.
Ultimately, adding Duren and Ivey would bolster the Knicks’ lineup, providing them with valuable assets for both the immediate future and long-term success.
