3 reasons why Knicks should strongly consider trading Isaiah Hartenstein

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 11: Isaiah Hartenstein #55 of the New York Knicks holds the ball after being called for a foul during the third quarter of the game against the Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden on November 11, 2022 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images) /

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Isaiah Hartenstein, New York Knicks. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images) /

2: Hartenstein’s struggles on defense/the boards

This relates to the previous point, but even if Tom Thibodeau was utilizing Isaiah Hartenstein properly, that wouldn’t change his lack of physicality and energy on defense. He stands at seven-foot yet he’s easily outmatched by opposing big men.

One of the more recent examples of this was in the Knicks’ 128-120 overtime win over the Bulls on Dec. 14. Hartenstein was New York’s worst player on the floor in the 16 minutes that he played. He was outplayed by Nikola Vucevic, which has unfortunately become a theme for Hartenstein when he goes up against opposing centers.

If Hartenstein could manage to use his height and strength to his advantage, he’d become a far better defender. Instead, there are too many occurrences where he seems to be playing scared. Watching him sub in for Robinson can be brutal because the impact that Mitch brings to the game is the exact opposite of what I-Hart brings.

Because Thibs chooses to view Hartenstein as a traditional center, his deficiencies on defense and the boards have been made painfully evident. His performance has led to many fans rightfully calling for Sims to play over him, which brings me to the next point.

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