Knicks Trade Rumors: Latest report gives insight on Isaiah Hartenstein’s future
In two days from now, the 2023 NBA trade deadline will have come and gone. At that point, the New York Knicks’ roster should look different than it does now.
There are many fans that would like to see Isaiah Hartenstein traded, however, the latest report indicates that he’s going to remain in New York. After signing a two-year, $16 million deal with the Knicks in free agency, the seven-foot center was reportedly on the trading block. Mitchell Robinson suffered a fractured thumb against the Wizards on Jan. 18, and since then, Hartenstein and Jericho Sims have seen an increase in minutes.
Hartenstein has had a string of solid games in Robinson’s absence, which has reportedly affected his future in NYC.
On the topic of New York looking to trade Hartenstein or not, Action Network’s Matt Moore reported:
"After some thought that the Knicks were out on Isaiah Hartenstein and looking to move him after signing him this summer, his recent play has changed their mind, and there’s a belief Hartenstein will stay in New York after next Thursday."
Isaiah Hartenstein’s recent play has reportedly led to Knicks not wanting to trade him ahead of deadline
Isaiah Hartenstein was previously labeled as a player to watch because of his team-friendly contract. It’s unfortunate that Mitchell Robinson got hurt, but it seems as if Hartenstein’s increased role is what has led to the Knicks no longer being willing to trade him ahead of Thursday.
The 24-year-old is averaging 5.2 points and 6.5 rebounds in 19.4 minutes. In New York’s last four games, he’s averaged 12 rebounds. His offensive stats have taken a hit since joining the Knicks due to Tom Thibodeau wanting to use him as a traditional center, but his 6.5 rebounds per game is a career-high.
Robinson is set to return sometime after the All-Star break, so if New York were to trade Hartenstein before Thursday’s deadline, the front office would have to acquire another center. Serge Ibaka has been linked to the Knicks, but with Hartenstein reportedly staying put for the rest of the season, it appears as if New York isn’t going to make a trade like that.
If Isaiah Hartenstein isn’t traded, he could be moved during the offseason depending on how the remainder of the year plays out.
