The New York Knicks have ample time to strategize.
Currently lacking a traditional backup center, the Knicks should not rush into acquiring one through an extravagant trade today. Instead, exercising patience is key.
Precious Achiuwa remains available in free agency, while other lesser-known big men still await contracts. The Knicks could seek to fill the gap behind Mitchell Robinson immediately by pursuing trades; however, the complexities of the collective bargaining agreement would complicate any proposed transaction.
A summer trade for a substitute big man might create unresolvable issues later in the season. More importantly, re-signing Achiuwa in the near future could provide additional trade flexibility as winter approaches.
This is how it could unfold.
After acquiring Mikal Bridges, the Knicks find their attractive trade assets significantly diminished. They possess several second-round picks along with protected first-round selections from both the Detroit Pistons and Washington Wizards for 2025—which may not convey due to Washington’s persistent efforts to plunge down the standings. Moreover, they can exchange first-round picks with another team in 2026 (although this is less appealing since they are expected to be competitive that season) as well as in 2030.
If they choose not to trade any of their rookies or players from their top eight rotation, that essentially concludes their options.
According to The Athletic, if the Knicks were to acquire a center during the offseason, employing an Achiuwa sign-and-trade deal would facilitate this move without forcing them to part with any current rotation members. However, depleting their limited draft capital for a backup center would commit them too stringently to this roster and limit opportunities for midseason improvements.
What if they traded away Detroit’s pick now but later discovered more pressing issues that needed addressing?
The quest for a backup center transcends simply filling 18 minutes behind Robinson; it’s also about securing reliable support. Currently perceived as an emergency player is Jericho Sims.
While Achiuwa showed promise during his time with New York last season, he aligns more closely with a hybrid power forward/center role rather than being Tom Thibodeau’s preferred anchor of defense—an imposing rim protector anchoring his squad’s defensive structure. He demonstrated his capability against second units last season but may face challenges if pressed into starting duties during high-stakes situations throughout the year
Robinson has only surpassed 61 games once over five seasons and has undergone multiple surgeries on his ankle since December. Should he be sidelined without reliable support behind him on hand, then hopes of maintaining defensive integrity at the basket will diminish significantly
