The New York Knicks’ search for a backup center has been a major storyline throughout the offseason. Currently, behind starter Mitchell Robinson, the team relies on undersized Precious Achiuwa and a pair of unproven bigs, Jericho Sims and Ariel Hukporti.
This summer, the Knicks have explored various options, including potential trades for Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler and Portland Trail Blazers’ Robert Williams III. Another possible target could be Detroit Pistons’ Isaiah Stewart, as the Pistons might look to trade veterans in favor of younger players and draft picks.
According to Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, Stewart, who is on a manageable $60 million contract for the next four years (with a player option), could be a desirable asset for several teams.
At 23 years old, Stewart has been a reliable performer for the Pistons since his rookie season in 2020, averaging 9.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game, with shooting splits of 49% from the field and 34% from beyond the arc.
His size and physicality would make him a strong addition to the Knicks’ second unit, and playing under head coach Tom Thibodeau, known for maximizing his centers’ potential, could further enhance Stewart’s game.
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