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3 reasons why Knicks should strongly consider trading Isaiah Hartenstein

By Jordanna Clark

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)
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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New York Knicks, Jericho Sims
Jericho Sims, New York Knicks. (Photo by Dennis Schneidler/USA TODAY Sports) /

1: Allow for Sims to be Robinson’s primary backup

Over the summer, the Knicks converted Jericho Sims’ two-way contract to a three-year, $5.7 million contract with $2.9 million of it being guaranteed. He didn’t get much playing time in his rookie season as he averaged 2.2 points and 4.1 rebounds in 13.5 minutes across 41 games, but it was still evident that the No. 58 pick in the 2021 draft was worth something.

Sims has been playing behind Hartenstein this season, but when he’s in the game, he makes more of an impact than Robinson’s primary backup. The 24-year-old is a good defender with quick feet and doesn’t get into foul trouble either, which is something that Robinson still struggles with in his fifth year in the league.

Now that Thibs has finally embraced playing the kids and has removed a few veterans from the rotation, it’s time to increase Sims’ role, too. He doesn’t have the offensive skillset that Hartnestein has, but as mentioned, Thibodeau likes to use his centers as rim protectors. Sims fits into that category.

Plus, it’s a bonus to get to watch Sims hang in the air when he goes up for an alley-oop. It will never get old to watch him casually hang above the rim.

Giving Sims more playing time will help with his development as he’s still in only his second season, although he’s only five months younger than Hartenstein. The potential is there. Moving on from Hartenstein would give Sims the increased role that he deserves.

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