New York Knicks fans will argue they now have a strong enough squad to take on and come out on top of the Eastern Conference. Mikal Bridges’ surprising arrival via trade brought plenty of confidence to the fanbase that they finally have a contender that can go to the NBA Finals next year.
However, his move from Brooklyn meant that one of their key contributors had to move on to better things. Isaiah Hartenstein decided to move on from the Knicks and join the Oklahoma City Thunder. While his decision to leave the team wasn’t easy, he did what he felt was best for his career and family.
Since his departure, the Knicks have been linked with multiple big men who could take his place. However, none of them have been as intriguing as the latest trade rumor involving a team eager to start their full rebuild.
The New York Knicks could land Nikola Vucevic from the Chicago Bulls
It’s clear to many Chicago Bulls fans that the team is headed to another rebuild as they try to find a roster that could finally help them end their championship drought.
One of the players affected by this executive decision is Nikola Vucevic. While the big man has been a great servant for the Bulls, his presence will only hinder the development of the team’s young core.
As they explore possible trade destinations for the Montenegrin center, the Knicks emerge as one of the possible destinations.
Per Empire Sports Media’s Davin McFarland:
NBA insider Marc Stein hinted that New York could be a destination for the former All-Star Vucevic, currently on a Chicago team looking to rebuild (h/t Geoff Magliocchetti of Sports Illustrated). Jason Burgos of Sportsnaut theorizes that, with Robinson’s frequent injury woes and lack of an offensive repertoire, trading for Vucevic would upgrade the position overall.
Vucevic has been quietly one of the most reliable big men in the association. In 14 seasons, Vucevic only has two that he didn’t play in 65 games or more. Compare that to Robinson — in four of his six seasons he’s played 65 games or less.
Aside from his impressive health, Vooch played well as the Bulls’ starting center last season. He averaged 18.0 PPG, 10.5 RPG, and 3.3 APG on 48% FG and 29% 3FG. He’ll be a great addition to a high-octane Knicks roster that’s aiming to win it all next season.
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