Knicks Rumors: Precious Achiuwa Eyed for New Contract After Isaiah Hartenstein Exit

The New York Knicks are reportedly eyeing a new contract for free-agent power forward Precious Achiuwa following Isaiah Hartenstein’s departure to the Oklahoma City Thunder, per The Athletic’s Fred Katz.

“One name to watch is Precious Achiuwa, the unrestricted free agent who filled in admirably as a backup center and power forward for the Knicks this past season,” Katz wrote. “New York chose not to extend a qualifying offer to Achiuwa, which would have made him a restricted free agent but made that decision purely because it was better for the team’s cap flexibility. The Knicks are leaving open the possibility of re-signing Achiuwa, a league source said. Were Achiuwa to return, he would play behind Robinson.”

Achiuwa, who joined the Knicks halfway through the year last season, averaged 7.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game in 49 games with the team.

As Katz noted, the Knicks did not extend a qualifying offer to Achiuwa, making him an unrestricted free agent. As many teams vie to get a big man on the free-agent market this offseason, Achiuwa could have a few teams looking to pick him up.

But with a chance to play solid minutes for a team likely to be a contender for the Finals, Achiuwa could opt to remain with New York if given the chance.

The Knicks had one of the best role players in the league with Hartenstein, but they couldn’t outbid the Thunder and are now looking to replace the rim protector. Most of the top free-agent big men in the league have agreed to deals at this point, so retaining Achiuwa could be New York’s best option.

The Knicks already made a splash this offseason, trading for Brooklyn Nets swingman Mikal Bridges. After that deal, it seems unlikely New York will target any more All-Star talent, but it still has the chance to get better by adding solid role players.