Knicks unrestricted free agent center Isaiah Hartenstein is expected to attract the attention of many teams once he becomes a free agent. Sources have informed SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley that the offers Hartenstein is likely to receive will make it difficult for the Knicks to keep him. Teams like Oklahoma City and Orlando, with more cap space, could potentially offer a larger contract to Hartenstein.
At 26 years old, Hartenstein had an impressive season filling in for the injured Mitchell Robinson. He averaged 7.8 points and 8.3 rebounds while shooting 64 percent from the field in 75 games. It would be a blow to the Knicks if they were to lose him in free agency.
With the possibility of Hartenstein leaving, the Knicks may need to look for a backup center in the free-agent market. One player they have shown interest in is Magic center Goga Bitadze. Meanwhile, Begley also mentioned that trade discussions involving Robinson are ongoing, but if Hartenstein departs, the need for trading Robinson may decrease.
In conclusion, Hartenstein’s impending free agency has created some uncertainty for the Knicks, who may need to explore other options for the center position if he decides to leave.