Two ex-Celtics big men listed as Knicks trade targets in new report | Sporting News

The New York Knicks have been linked to two different former Boston Celtics centers in trade buzz.

The Knicks have reason to be shopping for frontcourt help right now. Mitchell Robinson isn’t returning to action for another one to two months, and New York doesn’t want to wear down Karl-Anthony Towns.

On Monday, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz listed three players the Knicks should be going after before the deadline: Robert Williams III of the Portland Trail Blazers, Daniel Theis of the New Orleans Pelicans, and Larry Nance Jr. of the Atlanta Hawks.

“ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Mitchell Robinson is unlikely to return from ankle surgery until the end of January or even into February,” Swartz said.

“This news means that the Knicks should still be pursuing backup center options behind Karl-Anthony Towns.”

“Williams has his own injury history, but would be an ideal defensive complement to Towns and could even play next to him in big lineups.”

“Nance brings more versatility to the position and allows the team to play five-out with Towns resting, and Theis is a low-cost option who should be available.”

Williams III and Theis both spent multiple years on contending teams in Boston.

Williams III is in year three of a four-year, $48 million deal. Theis is on an expiring contract with a cap hit of just over $2 million, and Nance Jr. is also on an expiring deal — year two of a $21.6 million contract.

Which player should the Knicks prioritize of the three?

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