Knicks could part ways with unstable center in favor of $78 million Raptors star | Sporting News

With the New York Knicks targeting various big men this season, an impactful frontcourt addition is inevitable for the franchise. 

The Knicks may land an undervalued Toronto Raptors center soon. 

“The New York Knicks have a glaring issue regarding their center depth,” Sports Illustrated’s Jed Katz wrote Monday. 

“While the return of Precious Achiuwa has slightly helped with backup Mitchell Robinson still recovering from ankle surgery, New York can’t afford to be patient with its players and rotation.”

“It’s unclear whether or not the Knicks will enter the trade market this winter, but it’s certainly possible.”

“Teams will be selling fewer stars and more role players to help playoff teams and title contenders, which means the Knicks could grab a more durable and established center.”

“The Toronto Raptors, a team rebuilding with a 7-21 record, has a center that could entice New York.”

“Jakob Poeltl is a player that many teams could eye. He doesn’t fit Toronto’s timeline at 29 years old and is averaging 15.5 points, 11.0 rebounds, 1.2 steals, and 1.2 blocks in 32.1 minutes per game.”

“New York would get significantly better on both sides of the floor if it chooses to target Poeltl in a trade to bolster the bench.”

“Because Poeltl is making $19.5 million this season, Robinson’s $14.3 million contract would have to be moved in a trade.”

“Achiuwa, making $6.0 million, would be another player likely to be traded if the Raptors’ center were acquired.”

“The hard part of a deal regarding Robinson is determining his value. He is way less durable than Poeltl, however, when healthy, he is one of the best defensive centers in the NBA. Achiuwa would be used as a salary filler.”

“The Knicks would be getting a player who rebounds just as efficiently as Robinson. Although he isn’t as defensively talented, the offense outweighs that with a better touch at the rim.”

“Knicks fans may be upset to see Robinson be involved in trade rumors, but if New York wants to compete for a championship, it can’t be patient anymore.”

“Robinson has had a history of injuries and has gained a noticeable amount of weight since last season. He’s making progress, however the Knicks need to improve the rotation sooner rather than later.”

With the Raptors struggling to compete in the Eastern Conference this season, it makes sense why Poeltl’s contributions are being disregarded. 

Still, the intelligent 7-foot big man is enjoying a career year in Toronto from a scoring standpoint, averaging 15.5 points per contest to begin the 2024-25 campaign.

Robinson may be a more athletic low-post player with fewer defensive limitations, but with his inability to stay healthy, the Knicks should consider swapping him for Poeltl.

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