Knicks could acquire Hawks’ $46 million paint beast by parting with Mitchell Robinson | Sporting News

The New York Knicks’ frontcourt situation isn’t ideal. 

The Knicks could bolster their low-post production this season by acquiring an Atlanta Hawks paint beast who hasn’t been riddled with injuries. 

“For the Knicks, (Clint) Capela fits like a glove. With Mitchell Robinson struggling to stay healthy and Precious Achiuwa being inconsistent, they need a reliable big man who can rebound, defend, and provide a steady presence in the paint,” Fadeaway World’s Fran Leiva wrote Tuesday. 

“Capela isn’t the kind of player who’s going to score 20 a night, but he doesn’t need to be. His role is to anchor the defense and clean up the boards, something he’s proven he can do at an elite level.”

“This trade is a win-win for both teams. The Hawks get younger while adding solid depth, and the Knicks get a durable, experienced big man who can help them stay in the mix at the top of the East.”

“Sometimes, it’s the simple, under-the-radar moves that make all the difference.”

“Clint Capela is one of the most underrated big men in the league, and this season, he’s been quietly doing what he does best: controlling the paint.” 

“He’s averaging 10.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and over a block per game while shooting an efficient 58.2% from the field. He’s not flashy, but he’s the type of guy who shows up every night, cleans the glass, and locks down the rim.” 

“With his contract expiring this year, the Hawks might be looking to move him while they can still get value.”

“The Hawks are sitting at 13-12, seventh in the East, and while they’ve been competitive, they’re clearly leaning toward developing their younger core.” 

“Onyeka Okongwu has been stepping up as the center of the future, making Capela’s role a little redundant as an expiring $22 million contract.”

“By trading him for Mitchell Robinson, who provides elite rim protection when healthy, Precious Achiuwa, a high-energy bench option, and Matt Ryan, a movement shooter, the Hawks can mix immediate impact with long-term upside.”

While Capela won’t wow spectators with captivating low-post drop steps and reverse pivots, his respectable motor allows him to thrive as a lob threat and glass cleaner. 

The Geneva, Switzerland native nearly averages a double-double efficiently on the 13-12 Hawks.  

Capela has also proven to be a patient interior defender. The former first-round pick’s rapid first jump helps him block one shot per game. 

Robinson and Robinson are solid paint presences when they’re healthy, but Capela would be the Knicks’ safest option from a frontcourt perspective. 

More NBA: Lakers predicted to cut ties with Austin Reaves via trade