The New York Knicks are grappling with significant challenges in their frontcourt due to injuries to key players Mitchell Robinson and Precious Achiuwa. These absences have left the team with a glaring lack of depth at the center position. While Karl-Anthony Towns has performed admirably in his debut season with the Knicks, providing strong play as their starting center, the team has struggled to identify a reliable backup option to support him. This lack of depth has created difficulties for the Knicks in maintaining consistency in their rotations and defensive presence.
NBA insider Greg Swartz from Bleacher Report has proposed a potential solution for the Knicks. In an article outlining moves for all 30 teams to strengthen their rosters, Swartz suggested that New York consider trading for New Orleans Pelicans backup center Daniel Theis. The veteran big man, known for his defensive reliability and ability to contribute off the bench, could be an ideal fit for the Knicks’ needs.
“Don’t expect any major in-season trades from the New York Knicks after they gave up six first-round picks in trades to acquire Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges this past offseason,” Swartz explained. “Instead, stabilizing the backup center spot is more important, as Mitchell Robinson and Precious Achiuwa have both missed the entire season thus far due to injuries. Theis … (is) capable of handling rotation minutes behind Karl-Anthony Towns.”
Theis, currently with the Pelicans, comes with a modest cap hit of just over $2 million for this season, making him a financially viable option for the Knicks. At 32 years old, Theis brings valuable experience and a proven track record of delivering solid bench performances. His skill set could help address the Knicks’ struggles in their second unit, providing much-needed stability behind Towns.
For the Knicks, acquiring Theis would likely involve crafting a trade that balances their limited remaining assets. After their significant offseason moves, which included parting with six first-round draft picks, New York’s draft capital is constrained. However, a deal centered around a reasonable offer for Theis could be a smart, low-risk investment. His presence would allow the Knicks to shore up their frontcourt depth and ease the burden on Towns, ensuring they maintain a competitive edge throughout the season.
The Pelicans, dealing with their own health issues, might be open to moving Theis for the right package. New York’s ability to construct a trade that benefits both teams could pave the way for this acquisition. Adding Theis would enhance the Knicks’ bench, offering a dependable option capable of logging meaningful minutes in a season where durability and depth are critical.
Given the Knicks’ current circumstances and Theis’ fit within their system, pursuing this trade could be a pragmatic and impactful move. With the season progressing and injuries already influencing rotations, addressing the backup center role now would position the Knicks for sustained success.
