The New York Knicks have their two main centers Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson finally on the floor together, though they still lack some size and physicality as a unit. Therefore, they could once again be in the center market this offseason.
The Knicks could pursue Isaiah Stewart in a trade this offseason
Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus suggested that the Knicks should pursue Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart in a trade this upcoming offseason.
“New York has little flexibility and few trade pieces. Robinson has a movable contract ($13 million for 2025-26), but when he is healthy, he provides a vital defensive counterpoint to Towns. A smaller trade could send out the younger big (Hukporti) for an inexpensive role player. New York can also send a Washington Wizards first-round pick, but it’s heavily protected. … The Detroit Pistons may not want to move Stewart, but he’d provide a level of physical toughness that should appeal to Thibodeau,” Pincus wrote.
Stewart would fit the Knicks’ system very well thanks to his versatility and physical toughness that he brings to the table. The 23-year-old from Rochester, New York is in his fifth NBA season, all of which with the Pistons and has been their primary backup big this year.
Stewart could provide what the Knicks are currently missing in the frontcourt
In 62 games (three starts), Stewart is averaging 5.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. The Pistons have been one of the surprise teams in the league this season with a 37-31 record and currently hold a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, though Stewart’s playing time from years is dramatically less.
While Robinson is highly impactful in his own regard, he has dealt with major injuries in the past couple of years, so New York might want someone more durable at their disposal. Stewart has had injuries in the past but has stayed healthy this season, which could hopefully indicate a better trend going forward for him.
The Pistons haven’t made any clear indication that they are willing to move Stewart, though that could change quickly in the offseason as their needs going forward become more clear. If he does become available, the Knicks should check in and see what his price would be on the market, as he provides what the Knicks might be missing out of their frontcourt players.