With the 2023-24 NBA season right around the corner, there are still teams working to improve their rosters. A couple of superstar players are still rumored to be on the move, including both Damian Lillard and James Harden. One team to keep an eye on in trade discussions in the coming weeks is the New York Knicks, who are aggressively trying to get back into NBA Finals contention in the Eastern Conference.
At this point in time, the Knicks certainly appear to be a team to watch in the East. Jalen Brunson leads the way, with Julius Randle, RJ Barrett, and Josh Hart being his main supporting cast. New York would love to improve the roster more if the opportunity presents itself.
In a recent article published by FanSided, they took a look at the most likely player to be traded away from the Knicks. That player was big man Isaiah Hartenstein.
“With Jericho Sims and Isaiah Roby ready to step up and take the role as the reserve center, Hartenstein is a natural candidate to be dealt away if New York wants to shake things up before the trade deadline.”
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: New York Knicks Updates
The logic is sound for why the Knicks would deal Hartenstein before the trade deadline this year. There are plenty of teams around the NBA that could use some front-court depth and New York simply doesn’t have a great role for him.
Last season with the Knicks, Hartenstein ended up playing in 82 games and getting eight starts. He averaged 5.0 points per game to go along with 6.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 0.8 blocks. In addition to those averages, Hartenstein shot 53.5 percent from the floor.
Standing in at 7-foot and 250 pounds, he’s a huge body that could be a welcome addition for any team that wants to add to their center depth. He’s also just 25 years old with plenty of room to continue improving.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: New York Knicks Updates
While this move wouldn’t be a huge one, the Knicks are not going to shy away from making small tweaks to their roster. Obi Toppin was a perfect example of that. Hartenstein could be the next to head out of town.
Expect to continue hearing a ton of trade rumors around the NBA. Teams aren’t doing doing business and the Knicks should keep working the phone lines. Don’t be surprised if Hartenstein finds himself in a new city before long.
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