With the New York Knicks acquiring Mikal Bridges and giving OG Anunoby a five-year, $212 million extension, keeping Isaiah Hartenstein was always going to be challenging. Now that “I-Hart” has officially departed, the Knicks must search for a replacement.
The Knicks are reportedly eyeing Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler as an option, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
“Knicks have also explored the trade market, expressing interest in Jazz center Walker Kessler and Hornets center Nick Richards,” Scotto wrote. “Rival executives believe Utah would entertain trade offers for Kessler.”
To land Walker Kessler, the Knicks would likely need to offer a compelling trade package. Given Kessler’s potential and strong performance metrics—averaging 8.7 points on 69% shooting, 8 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks in 23.2 minutes per game—a trade might include a combination of draft picks, young players, or a valuable asset from their current roster.
The Knicks have both the assets and cap space needed to facilitate a trade for Kessler.
Although Kessler shows potential, Utah might consider trading him after a somewhat disappointing sophomore season. He experienced declines in points, field goal percentage, and rebounds compared to his promising rookie year.
Kessler’s upcoming season is crucial for demonstrating his value as the 22nd overall pick in 2022. Nevertheless, New York’s primary interest would be utilizing him effectively in their rotation, particularly during the playoffs, rather than focusing on his development into a star.
Additionally, Kessler is on a cost-effective contract. The 2023 All-Rookie First Team member is set to earn just under $3 million next season, with a team option for 2025-26.
Currently, New York’s payroll for the upcoming season stands at just over $154.5 million, according to Basketball Reference. This amount is above the league’s salary cap but below the “First Apron Level” of $178.132 million, which provides teams with more flexibility.
Even with a slight increase in payroll once the Mikal Bridges trade is finalized, the Knicks would still have room for Kessler. They also possess ample draft capital to offer the Jazz, including three first-round picks and one second-round pick in 2025.
However, Kessler is not the only potential target for New York.
Nick Richards presents another appealing option for the Knicks.
Nick Richards, at 26, is slightly older than Kessler but might be a more dependable short-term solution. The Kentucky alum had a standout season, averaging 9.7 points on 69.1% shooting, 8 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 26.3 minutes per game. He also achieved a career-high 51 starts out of 67 games.
Given Mitchell Robinson’s injury history, the Knicks cannot rely solely on untested reserve Jericho Sims as the primary backup. Although Precious Achiuwa could be re-signed, his 6-foot-8 frame makes him better suited as a “tweener” rather than a traditional center.
Further updates are expected as New York continues to explore options in the center market, especially with Hartenstein, Jonas Valanciunas, and Andre Drummond now off the table.
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