The New York Knicks have a frontcourt depth problem as long as Mitchell Robinson is injured.
Jericho Sims has shown signs of improvement, but New York could really use a bona fide backup center for when Karl-Anthony Towns is resting.
According to a new report from Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes, a former Defensive Player of the Year candidate with the Boston Celtics (now a member of the Portland Trail Blazers) could be a good trade acquisition for the Knicks.
“It'll take a few weeks of proof that he can actually stay healthy, but oft-injured big man Robert Williams III is bound to be the subject of trade chatter this season,” Hughes said.
“Start with his price point of just $12.4 million this year and an additional $13.3 million in 2025-26. That's a backup salary for a player who, when last healthy for close to a full season, started for a stellar Boston Celtics team and finished seventh in Defensive Player of the Year voting.”
“The Portland Trail Blazers should be motivated sellers. They have a logjam at center that they're more likely to clear by moving Williams than the more expensive Deandre Ayton, and opening up minutes for rookie big man Donovan Clingan should be a major priority.”
“Another factor to consider: the somewhat surprising need for centers around the league.”
“The New York Knicks are thin with Mitchell Robinson sidelined, the Memphis Grizzlies are entrusting a starting role to rookie Zach Edey and the New Orleans Pelicans are dying for a starting-caliber 5.”
Would the Knicks be willing to take on more injury risk by acquiring Williams III? If healthy, he’d provide immense value.
Williams III is in year three of a four-year, $48 million rookie extension.
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