The New York Knicks are planning to shore up their frontcourt depth after losing Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder in free agency after trading for Mikal Bridges and giving OG Anunoby a massive extension.
As it stands, Mitchell Robinson is the only center with a guaranteed contract currently on the roster. According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, they have turned to Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler as a trade option.
“The Knicks have also made inquiries on the trade market, showing interest in Jazz center Walker Kessler, league sources told HoopsHype, along with Hornets center Nick Richards, as previously reported by HoopsHype,” Scotto wrote in his column.
“There’s a belief from rival executives that Utah would listen to trade calls for Kessler, whereas last year, the sense was he was not for sale,” he added.
Walker Kessler is one of the top rim-protecting bigs in the league, as he averages 2.4 blocks per game in his career.
After finishing third in the Rookie of the Year race in 2022-23, Kessler hasn’t taken off as some in Utah had hoped, as he only started 22 of 64 games in his second season, averaging 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks in 23.3 minutes per game this year.
What can the New York Knicks offer for Walker Kessler?
Taking in Walker Kessler is a great move for the New York Knicks, especially since he is on a team-friendly deal, earning roughly $3 million in 2024-25.
At $154.5 million, the New York Knicks are over the league’s salary cap, but they’re only under the “First Apron” of $178.13 million.
However, it would be difficult for the New York Knicks to make an irresistible offer to the Utah Jazz, especially after they traded five first-round picks for Mikal Bridges.
