The New York Knicks are in a position where a strategic move before the trade deadline could significantly enhance their chances in a competitive Eastern Conference.
With their defensive struggles and a lack of bench depth, targeting a player like Isaiah Stewart could be an ideal solution. Here’s an analysis of the situation and the potential trade:
Why Isaiah Stewart Fits the Knicks
1. Elite Rim Protection:
– Stewart’s ability to hold opponents to 47.5% shooting inside six feet makes him one of the most effective rim protectors in the league.
– His defensive presence would bolster a Knicks team currently ranked 21st in defensive rating addressing their most glaring weakness.
2. Rebounding and Energy:
– The Knicks rank 24th in rebounds and 28th in blocks, areas where Stewart excels.
– His hustle and physicality would provide an energy boost off the bench, something the Knicks lack due to Thibodeau’s limited bench rotations.
3. Compatibility with Karl-Anthony Towns:
– Stewart’s defensive focus and willingness to do the dirty work complement Towns’ offensive skill set.
– Whether starting alongside Towns or coming off the bench, Stewart’s role would be clearly defined and impactful.
4. Playoff-Ready Role Player:
– Stewart’s style of play—focused on defense, rebounding, and physicality—is invaluable in the playoffs, where games slow down, and interior defense becomes critical.
Potential Trade Proposal
– Knicks Receive: Isaiah Stewart
– Pistons Receive: 2025 Knicks first-round pick (top-13 protected), Evan Fournier (salary filler)
Why It Works for the Knicks:
– They address their defensive and rebounding deficiencies without giving up a core player.
– Stewart’s contract is team-friendly, and his youth aligns with the Knicks’ timeline.
Why It Works for the Pistons:
– They reacquire their 2025 first-round pick, giving them flexibility in their rebuild.
– Fournier’s expiring contract provides salary relief or a trade chip for future deals.
Pros for the Knicks
1. Improved Defense:
– Adding Stewart immediately upgrades their interior defense and rim protection, making them more balanced.
2. Bench Depth:
– Stewart’s presence allows the Knicks to play with more energy and consistency when their starters rest.
3. Low Risk, High Reward:
– The trade doesn’t mortgage the future or disrupt the core, while significantly improving a critical weakness.
Cons for the Knicks
1. Offensive Limitations:
– Stewart is not a scoring threat, which could make the Knicks’ second unit more one-dimensional.
2. Asset Management:
– Trading a first-round pick, even a protected one, limits future flexibility for a bigger move.
Conclusion
Acquiring Isaiah Stewart would be a smart, low-risk move for the Knicks to address their defensive shortcomings and improve their bench depth.
His skill set perfectly complements their needs, and the cost—returning a protected first-round pick to Detroit—is reasonable. While it won’t make the Knicks title favorites, it strengthens their roster and positions them as a more well-rounded playoff contender.
