Knicks eye frontcourt upgrade before trade deadline

The New York Knicks are reportedly looking to bolster their frontcourt ahead of the fast-approaching trade deadline. Despite a strong start to the season, the Knicks are determined to upgrade the position, with key players still recovering from injury and offseason losses.

Stefan Bondy of the New York Post highlighted a source familiar with the team’s plans: “One way or another — whether it’s with Mitch or with a trade — they’re going to upgrade their frontcourt,” the source confirmed.

Mitchell Robinson remains out due to an ankle surgery he underwent during the offseason. The starting center has yet to play in the 2024-25 season, but the Knicks are hopeful he will be ready to return in early-to-mid February. His absence has been a major gap for the team, especially in the paint.

New York also lost backup center Isaiah Hartenstein, who signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder in free agency. Hartenstein had been a reliable contributor behind Robinson, and his departure has left a hole in the Knicks’ frontcourt depth.

Despite these setbacks, the Knicks have performed well. With a current record of 32-16, they sit in third place in the Eastern Conference, proving their resilience even with limited big-man depth. Still, the team is aware that strengthening the frontcourt is essential to stay competitive.