The New York Knicks have been strategic this offseason, addressing a crucial need for center depth alongside their injury-prone starter, Mitchell Robinson. At 26 years old, Robinson has struggled with injuries throughout his career, playing just 31 games last season and surpassing 70 games only once. This has made finding reliable support for him a top priority as the Knicks prepare for the upcoming season.
To bolster their frontcourt, the Knicks have taken proactive steps by signing Precious Achiuwa to a one-year, $6 million deal. Achiuwa is expected to contribute as a key rotational piece, while Julius Randle will also take on some center responsibilities in addition to his power-forward duties. This approach allows the Knicks to maintain flexibility and avoid over-relying on Robinson, whose availability has been inconsistent.
The Knicks’ cautious and patient strategy has paid dividends in recent years. They avoided the costly Donovan Mitchell trade and instead focused on acquiring Jalen Brunson, positioning themselves as long-term contenders. This deliberate approach continues to guide their decision-making, particularly in terms of potential midseason moves.
One such move could involve veteran center Clint Capela. With a $22.2 million salary hit for the upcoming season, acquiring Capela now would be financially challenging. However, the Knicks could explore a trade closer to the deadline, potentially negotiating with the Atlanta Hawks to cover a portion of his salary in exchange for draft picks or player value. Capela, known for his rebounding and shot-blocking, would provide valuable depth and experience for a playoff push.
Until then, the Knicks are prepared to manage with their current roster, utilizing Achiuwa, Randle, and Jericho Sims to ease the burden on Robinson. This balanced approach not only safeguards the team’s financial flexibility but also ensures that they are well-equipped for any challenges that arise throughout the season.
