Loaded at the position, it seems as though one New York Knicks big man must be set free. In a dash of positive Knickerbocker news, it now appears several NBA teams are interested in obtaining the services of skilled offensive big Willy Hernangomez.
Four centers coupled with the face of the franchise, Kristaps Porzingis, acting as a 7-foot-3 stretch four who should also play a little at the five, is not a great recipe for the New York Knicks.
Count ’em:
One has to go and we already know why Joakim Noah isn’t going anywhere. The monstrous contract provided by Phil Jackson that averages $18.5 million over this season and the next two, will prohibit any interest around the association until the year of 2020—the final year of the four-year deal that’ll finally provide value as an expiring contract.
Enes Kanter has been a revelation (even while playing through injuries) and is signed through next season. Kyle O’Quinn offers that perfect backup garbageman center and is also signed through next season for a modest $4.256 million annual earnings.
The obvious value man is talented offensive big Willy Hernangomez and finally, it seems as though there’s positive news about his trade block status.
Ian Begley of ESPN New York is reporting that “several teams are interested in Hernangomez.”
Hernangomez, 23, has only participated in three of the last 16 Knick games. He’s a clearcut fourth of the four on the Knicks center depth chart and is simply wasting away in this situation.
As an NBA All-Rookie second-team member a season ago, there’s no question Willy is equipped with skills. The problem comes when realizing his defense will never match-up well with KP on this Knicks frontcourt. The prototype necessary to play next to Porzingis must be a tougher, defensive-minded player who’s rebounding abilities are second-to-none (i.e. Kanter).
Feb. 8, 2018, is the NBA’s trade deadline. Scott Perry and Steve Mills have a decision to make while weighing the top offers from potential interested suitors.
