New York Knicks fans will claim that the team already has what it takes to reach the NBA Finals and win the title that has evaded them since 1973. The squad’s actions during the summer made them an intriguing team to watch. While some may say that the Knicks spent a king’s ransom to get Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets, it is undeniable that he will be a valuable addition to the Knicks. With him completing the Villanova core, fans may reasonably expect the club to make a serious run for the NBA championship.
However, the center position remains the Knicks’ most glaring weakness. They still need to find a suitable replacement for Isaiah Hartenstein, who decided to depart the Knicks for the Oklahoma City Thunder. According to reports, the organization has already chosen his replacement, but the deal cannot be completed until the season begins.
New York Knicks reportedly will move for Jonas Valanciunas during the season
Empire Sports Media’s Matthew Legros wrote an article detailing the Knicks’ likely trade for Jonas Valanciunas once the season begins. While there has been speculation that Mitchell Robinson could be traded for a center who could immediately enhance the Knicks’ offense, Valanciunas would change the way the team operates.
However, Legros stated that completing the trade with the Washington Wizards comes with its own set of risks: If he were dealt, Valanciunas would undoubtedly be the most gifted pure scorer on New York’s center depth chart. If the Knicks trade Robinson for the 32-year-old, they would give up defense, rebounding activity, and energy in exchange for outside shooting and interior scoring. Last season, Valanciunas averaged 12.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. If the Knicks didn’t bring him in for his defensive talents, they’d have to go elsewhere to improve their inside defense. However, this risky decision may end up being a defining move for the Knicks front.
