New York Knicks: Why trading Willy Hernangomez was the right move

Despite having a promising rookie season, the New York Knicks finally decided to trade Willy Hernangomez. He was one of the triangle pegs that no longer had a hole to fit into. 

Being named to the All-Rookie First Team is a great accomplishment, but that credential doesn’t really come with much merit. Especially when you’re part of a rookie class that couldn’t even name a second frontcourt player worthy of making the All-Rookie Second Team, with Marquese Chriss of the Phoenix Suns being the only one there.

Acquiring Enes Kanter in the offseason really diminished Willy Hernangomez’s chances of being a starter. His lack of defensive prowess is what gave Kyle O’Quinn the edge to be the backup.

Another factor is Jeff Hornacek being able to run his offense without influence from the front office.

Kanter and O’Quinn’s consistency never let Hernangomez receive any significant playing time. Being that making playoffs was the main goal, that also limited any real opportunity for him to change his role.

Kanter solidifying his role as the starting center of this team was the nail in the coffin.

O’Quinn’s future is only in question because this is the last year of his contract. If he makes it past the trade deadline with the Knicks, management would be making a statement that it sees him as part of the future plans.

That would make it even more understandable to move on from Hernangomez.

It was obvious from the start that the New York Knicks would’ve struck a deal earlier in the season, when they might have received more in return. But doing so too early would have looked bad to trade a player just coming off being named to the All-Rookie First Team.

Here’s what Hernangomez had to say prior to last night’s game, per Ian Begley of ESPN New York.

Obviously unhappy that it’s come to this, but aware that it’s the decision he has to make. With the deadline looming, the team also realized that and finally got it over with.

The jury will be out on this deal for some time. Playing behind Dwight Howard doesn’t mean Willy will have a chance to shine in Charlotte, either. And who knows what will be come of those future picks.

Adam Zagoria reports that Knicks general manager Scott Perry plans on waving Johnny O’Bryant:

If not for Joakim Noah, they would have already had an open roster spot to bring somebody in, like Trey Burke. It’s another opportunity to give someone a chance to prove their self.

Having a difficult time making Hernangomez fit, Knicks management did what they had to do. Keeping him could’ve meant getting less or possibly nothing.

Establishing a winning culture and emphasizing player development is a fine balance. At some point you have to sacrifice a bit and prioritize one over the other.

Willy definitely possess an offensive skill set that has shown he can thrive. Unfortunately the makeup of this roster restricted that from being on display. It’s not a move to tout, but it is a move out of necessity and not desire.

If you ever watched Shark Tank, it’s not hard to imagine GM’s over the phone saying “Accept the deal or I’m hanging up.”

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The New York Knicks did what they needed to do with Willy Hernangomez.