As we get closer to the start of free agency, could the New York Knicks pursue a veteran center?
After a frustrating end to their 2023-24 season, the New York Knicks are ready to get healthy and have a bounce-back season next year. With draft picks and cap space, the Knicks are in a good position to be able to make some impact moves this summer.
The franchise has been very patient in waiting to pull off a big move, but after this season, it feels like that time is getting closer. One thing is certain this summer; the New York Knicks will have to make a big decision when it comes to Isaiah Hartenstein’s future with the team.
Hartenstein had the best season of his career last year, as he took over and impressed as the starting center for much of the 2023-24 campaign. However, that has put Hartenstein in a position to get paid. Capped in what they can offer, some suitors could poach him away with a massive contract offer.
If Hartenstein leaves, it would be a big loss for the franchise. Recently, Michael Saenz of Sir Charles in Charge spoke about Mason Plumlee potentially being a good fit for the New York Knicks on the value side if Hartenstein left. Here’s what he had to say.
“One potential low-budget option that could arrive for the Knicks over the next few weeks is Mason Plumlee. Even though he’s likely on the backend of his career, Plumlee did prove that he was able to be effective for the LA Clippers this past season in spurts. If the Knicks were to target Plumlee, they would likely have to keep [Mitchell] Robinson in as the starter and use Plumlee sparingly off the bench,” Saenz wrote.
With the Clippers last season, Plumlee played in 46 games, while making 11 starts. In 14.7 minutes per game, he averaged 5.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. When he’s on the court, Plumlee has a high motor, but at this stage in his career, he is more of a backup like the role we saw him with on the Clippers.
Adding Plumlee would put a lot of stress on Mitchell Robinson to remain healthy, which isn’t something he’s been able to do. While Plumlee would be a nice backup, the New York Knicks have to be careful in committing to Robinson as the starter.
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