The New York Knicks made a bold move on September 27, trading for Karl-Anthony Towns just before the start of the NBA season. While the Knicks have shown interest in Towns for some time, the recent injury to Mitchell Robinson may have been the catalyst for finalizing the deal.
According to Ian Casselberry of Yahoo Sports, Robinson is still recovering from offseason ankle surgery and isn’t expected to return until December or January. His absence leaves a gap at the center position, prompting the Knicks to explore other options for additional depth.
One potential target is Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards. Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report recently highlighted Richards as a top trade target for the Knicks, especially with their need for size and rebounding in the wake of Robinson’s injury and Isaiah Hartenstein’s departure.
Hughes suggested the Knicks could offer a package including Precious Achiuwa and a draft pick to acquire Richards from Charlotte. Although the Hornets might be hesitant to let Richards go, especially with Mark Williams also dealing with an injury, Achiuwa’s upside could make the deal appealing. Richards, a legitimate 7-footer, averaged 3.5 offensive rebounds per 36 minutes last season—something Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau would likely value.
Knicks Have Had Interest in Richards
Before the New York Knicks made the trade for Karl-Anthony Towns, they were reportedly interested in several centers around the league, including Charlotte Hornets big man Nick Richards. According to James L. Edwards III of *The Athletic*, Richards had been on the Knicks’ radar during the offseason.
Edwards described Richards as “a big, physical specimen with a good motor” and noted his ability to rebound and be disruptive around the rim. At 26 years old, Richards averaged 9.7 points, 8 rebounds, and shot an impressive 69.1% from the field last season, making him a valuable target for teams looking to add size and interior presence.
Towns Excited About Playing for Knicks
The New York Knicks’ decision to trade for a center may depend on whether the front office feels additional depth is necessary. With Karl-Anthony Towns and Precious Achiuwa now on the roster, the team could opt to hold off on pursuing another center until Mitchell Robinson returns from injury. Towns, in particular, brings a level of familiarity with Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau from their time together in Minnesota, which should smooth his integration into the team.
Towns himself acknowledged this familiarity as a positive. “I think it gives us a little bit of a head start,” Towns said on October 3, as reported by Chris Herring of *ESPN*. “I know the offense he likes to run. I know the way he likes to play defense and what he expects from his players.”
Thibodeau echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that Towns’ experience in the playoffs will be beneficial to the Knicks. “He’s gotten a lot more experience. He’s now been deep in the playoffs and knows what that’s like,” Thibodeau said. He also noted that Towns’ unique skill set would complement the team well, especially given his growth and understanding of the game since his early years in the NBA.
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