The New York Knicks are preparing for the 2024-25 NBA season with their current center rotation, which includes Mitchell Robinson, Precious Achiuwa, and Jericho Sims. However, changes to the depth chart could occur before the season starts or by the trade deadline. According to Stefan Bondy from the New York Post, the Portland Trail Blazers may consider trading center Deandre Ayton soon due to his underwhelming performance. Ayton, who was the first overall pick, has not met expectations but possesses impressive physical abilities and plays for a struggling team with too many centers.
The Knicks would benefit from acquiring Ayton, particularly because Jalen Brunson, a key player and last season’s MVP candidate, excels in pick-and-roll situations. Ayton’s skills as a finisher make him an ideal match for Brunson’s playing style. Despite his career three-point shooting struggles, he remains young at 26 and has the potential to improve. He also averaged 11.1 rebounds last season, solidifying the Knicks’ status as a strong rebounding team, while his defensive capabilities would be further developed under coach Tom Thibodeau.
Ayton is the second Blazers big man linked to the Knicks, following Robert Williams III. While Williams might fit better due to his defensive prowess and lack of offensive demands, Ayton offers a near All-Star caliber presence that could contribute significantly to the Knicks’ title ambitions. In the event of injuries to key players like Julius Randle or Mikal Bridges, Ayton could serve as a reliable secondary option.
