The New York Knicks believe they finally have the right pieces to make a meaningful postseason run in 2024-25.
The front office managed to transform the roster into one of the most exciting teams in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks have a real shot at making it to the NBA Finals in the next couple of years thanks to Jalen Brunson’s on-court heroics.
The team’s moves over the past couple of weeks show the level of ambition the Knicks has for the NBA title. They tied down OG Anunoby to a long-term deal that should see him play his remaining peak years in Manhattan.
Moreover, they increased their attacking options by bringing over Mikal Bridges from the neighboring Brooklyn Nets. While some may accuse the team of tampering to form the team’s Villanova core, it’s undeniable that the Knicks have better offensive power that can match the Boston Celtics or any other team in the East.
However, all of these changes come with a price. With the number of players coming in, it’s natural that some of the key role players would be able to find better opportunities somewhere else.
Isaiah Hartenstein leaves the New York Knicks for Oklahoma City in free agency
Isaiah Hartenstein may not be the star man for the Knicks, but he’s a key piece to what they’re doing last season. The big man averaged 7.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks a game.
The Knicks reportedly tried everything they could to keep the man in the Big Apple. However, he found better opportunities with the Oklahoma City Thunder as he took their multi-year offer over New York’s.
Per Larry Brown Sports’ Steve DelVecchio:
Hartenstein on Monday signed a three-year, $87 million deal with the Thunder, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Hartenstein on Monday signed a three-year, $87 million deal with the Thunder, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
The Knicks wanted to keep Hartenstein, but they only held his early Bird rights. The most New York was able to offer was $72.5 million over four years, and they reportedly did just that. They were simply unable to compete with Oklahoma City’s offer financially.
The Knicks’ inability to offer Hartenstein the offer he wanted can be attributed to Anunoby and Bridges’ contracts. While it’s unfortunate that they’ll have to part ways with Hartenstein, the Knicks have no choice but to look elsewhere for a serviceable big man who can take on Hartenstein’s duties.
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