The New York Knicks are facing an early-season setback with the news that starting center Mitchell Robinson could be out for up to two months. Currently, he’s rehabbing from offseason surgery on his left ankle.
This leaves a huge gap in the lineup, especially after losing Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder in free agency.
Because of these losses, the Knicks are exploring options to bring in a new center, and Charlotte Hornets’ Nick Richards is high on their list.
According to reports from The Athletic’s James L. Edwards III, Nick Richards is someone the Knicks have had “on their radar” this offseason.
Now, with Robinson sidelined, they’re seriously considering a trade to fill that hole in their lineup.
- The Knicks are considering trading Nick Richards from the Hornets to fill in for Mitchell Robinson, who is out for two months with an ankle injury.
- Other potential trade targets include Isaiah Stewart and Walker Kessler, but Nick Richards is the most practical option due to financial limitations and roster needs.
- The Knicks need to make a move soon to stay competitive as the season approaches, with their first game against the Boston Celtics on October 22.
Why Nick Richards Is an Appealing Option for the Knicks
Standing 7 feet tall and weighing 245 pounds, Nick Richards offers the Knicks a strong, physical presence in the paint.
Last season, he started 51 games for the Hornets, averaging 9.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting an impressive 69.1% from the field.
Looking at the stats, Richards is a reliable performer on both ends of the court, so, naturally, he’s an attractive option for the Knicks.
Not only is Richards a capable player, but he also comes with a budget-friendly contract.
He will earn just $5 million per season over the next two years and won’t become a free agent until 2026.
Therefore, he’s a great fit for the Knicks, who are trying to keep their finances under control while still adding the talent they need.
Possible Trade: McBride and Bates-Diop for Richards
One floating trade idea suggests the Knicks could send backup point guard Miles McBride and forward Keita Bates-Diop to the Hornets. In return, they would receive Nick Richards and a future second-round pick.
McBride, who earns $4.7 million, would be the main piece in this trade. Although he’s a solid player, the Knicks may be willing to part with him to secure a much-needed center like Richards.
While McBride is valuable, Richards addresses a critical need for the team.
Adding Bates-Diop to the deal helps balance the salaries. However, some are hesitant because McBride is considered the best player in this trade, and losing him could weaken the team’s backcourt depth.
Still, with Robinson out, this trade could be the best way for the Knicks to stay competitive early in the season.
Other Trade Targets the Knicks Are Considering
While Nick Richards is a strong candidate, the Knicks are also looking at other possible trade options to fill their center position.
Detroit Pistons’ Isaiah Stewart and Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler are also being considered.
Isaiah Stewart Brings Defensive Versatility
Isaiah Stewart, at 6-foot-8 with a 7-foot-4 wingspan, is known for his impressive defensive versatility.
He’s great at switching onto guards and disrupting plays, which could be valuable for the Knicks’ defensive strategy.
Offensively, Stewart also offers a skill the Knicks have been missing: three-point shooting. Last season, he shot 38.3% from beyond the arc.
So, this would give the Knicks a floor-spacing big man, something they haven’t had in recent years.
However, acquiring Stewart would be a bigger trade, likely involving Mitchell Robinson, Miles McBride, and a future first-round pick.
Walker Kessler Offers Elite Shot-Blocking
Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz is another name on the Knicks’ list. He’s a standout shot-blocker and could fill in for Robinson defensively.
Kessler’s shot-blocking ability would help the Knicks keep their defense strong while Robinson is out.
A trade for Kessler would probably require the Knicks to give up McBride and a future first-round pick.
While Kessler’s defensive skills are appealing, his lack of offensive polish might make the Knicks hesitate before proceeding with this deal.
Knicks’ Financial Constraints Complicate Trade Decisions
One of the factors complicating any trade for the Knicks is their financial limitations.
As the team cannot take on more salary than they send out, their options are limited.
With larger contracts held by players like Robinson, Julius Randle, and RJ Barrett, finding the right balance in a trade deal is tough.
Another challenge is Precious Achiuwa, a forward who would be a great trade piece, can only be traded in January due to contract rules.
Because of this limitation, the Knicks have limited assets to offer, making McBride’s $4.7 million salary the most likely trade chip they have available.
Despite these financial challenges, the Knicks are determined to find the right solution to their center position problem, whether through a trade for Richards, Stewart, or Kessler or by standing pat and relying on their current roster depth.
As the Knicks prepare for the 2024 NBA season opener on October 22 against the Boston Celtics, the clock is ticking for their front office.
They have to decide whether to trade for help or wait for Robinson to heal. And their moves in the next few weeks will be important for how the team kicks off the season.
