Knicks Eyeing Upgrades By Trading Role-Playing Big Man

The Knicks are reportedly trying to move Jericho Sims. Stefan Bondy of the New York Post is reporting that after Sims has been moved out of the Knicks’ rotation, the front office are looking to find a trade partner to shop Sims around and get a good deal for him. But Bondy noted that a deal would be difficult to find.

“Jericho Sims, recently removed from New York’s rotation and inactive Monday with back spasms, is being shopped ahead of next month’s trade deadline, NBA sources who’ve been in contact with the team told The Post.”

The Knicks may also add another center this season, Mitchell Robinson, who, according to Thibodeau, remains on pace to return to practice this month after a long recovery from ankle surgery.”

“But he’s also a tough sell on the market as a player who is out of a rotation and will become a free agent in the summer.”

The New York Knicks have done well this season, but their roster is slightly thin. Especially at the center position, the Knicks need a lot of help. Karl-Anthony Towns has done well at the position, but he is not a rim protector or a high-level defender. And with Mitchell Robinson struggling with his injuries, they have had to rely a lot on Jericho Sims.

Sims hasn’t done well since joining the Knicks this season, averaging 1.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.2 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game, while shooting 63.2% from the field and 66.7% from the free-throw line.

Sims is on an expiring $2.1 million contract, which the Knicks might use to leverage a second-round pick or another low-earning option, perhaps at center or power forward. But since the Knicks are a second-apron team, they cannot take back more in salary amounts than they send out.

The Knicks Need Robinson Back Soon

Jericho Sims was signed to play some valuable minutes in the absence of Mitchell Robinson. But he clearly hasn’t delivered at the level that was required of him. His presence on the court showed just how much the Knicks miss the rim protection of Mitchell Robinson.

As mentioned before, Karl-Anthony Towns has played brilliantly, but isn’t a reliable enough defender, especially in the post. Robinson is set to return soon, as Bondy’s report revealed.

Last season, Robinson played 31 games and averaged 5.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 57.5% from the field, and 40.9% from the free-throw line.

While his offensive contributions left a lot to be desired, Robinson was a very strong defender for the Knicks last season. And prior to his injury in the playoffs, he was playing elite basketball against the 76ers.

The Knicks will hope that Robinson’s return from injury also marks an improvement in his health. Robinson’s unavailability has hurt the Knicks a lot over the last few years, and his being a regular fixture will allow the Knicks to field their strongest lineup.