There have been numerous rumors about the New York Knicks’ need for a center, and the latest mock trade suggests acquiring a former All-Star big man who could elevate the team in the 2024-25 season.
SNY’s David Vertsberger, via Yahoo Sports, proposed that the Knicks trade Miles McBride and Precious Achiuwa for Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez. Vertsberger explained:
“Similar to the Capela deal, the Knicks can target Lopez, another center whose talent compensates for the loss of Hartenstein. Unlike Capela, Lopez offers a fresh perspective at the five spot New York hasn’t seen before. Although he’s 36, Lopez remains a solid defender. While his rebound numbers aren’t remarkable, he boxes out well, creating opportunities for others to grab rebounds.”
Despite being a poor rebounder for his size, Lopez could significantly boost the Knicks on both offense and defense. The 7-1 center is one of the best catch-and-shoot three-point marksmen among centers, shooting 37 percent from beyond the arc over the last two seasons and confidently launching from 25-27 feet out.
Defensively, Lopez finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting for the 2022-23 season and was named to the All-Defensive First Team. He has averaged 2.45 blocks per game over the last two seasons and is adept in pick-and-roll situations and guarding smaller playmakers. Lopez’s three-and-D skills would enable the Knicks to play five out and potentially sway at least one playoff game in their favor.
Lopez’s scoring ability is proven by his three 25-plus-point performances in 11 playoff games over the past two seasons. Trading McBride and Achiuwa for Lopez, who will turn 37 during the next NBA campaign, might seem like a high price, especially since McBride was the Knicks’ second-best perimeter defender last season.
However, Lopez’s experience, proficiency on both ends of the court, and natural scoring talent could be the key to overcoming the Knicks’ formidable Eastern Conference rivals and securing a Larry O’Brien trophy in the 2024-25 season.
