Is it possible for the Knicks to make a trade for Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela?
published initially on Empire Sports Media
By Justin Backer; last modified on July 30, 24
The summer for the New York Knicks has been hectic. The Knicks have been busy, having traded for Mikal Bridges, extended the contracts of Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, and even hired head coach Tom Thibodeau.
There have been many additions to the roster from the previous season, but one departure sticks out. The Knicks’ center rotation seemed to be severely weak after Isaiah Hartenstein, who was New York’s starter center the previous season, left for the Oklahoma City Thunder in free agency.
Is Clint Capela a potential choice for the Knicks?
The Knicks have Ariel Hukporti, Jericho Sims, and Mitchell Robinson manning the center position internally, but this might not be sufficient. David Vertsberger of SNY recently proposed a fictitious deal featuring Clint Capela, the big man for the Atlanta Hawks.
In a hypothetical deal, the fan-favorite guard would be leaving the Knicks.
According to Vertsberger’s plan, the Knicks would deal Miles McBride for Capela and sign Precious Achiuwa as part of a sign-and-trade. Given that the Knicks selected Tyler Kolek in the second round, McBride is no longer a need, and Achiuwa is still vying to play in New York.
Vertsberger states, “There aren’t many high-end bigs available.” “However, the Hawks who are retooling may consider splitting with Capela.”
Throughout his NBA career, Capela has been a reliable double-double machine.
Throughout his ten-year NBA career, Capela has averaged 12.3 points and 10.7 rebounds while playing center. He has also averaged a double-double for seven consecutive seasons. For a mediocre Hawks squad the previous season, Capela averaged 11.5 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. In 2020–2021 he had a career best season with an average of 15.2 points, a league-high 14.3 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game.
With Mitchell Robinson and him, Capela would give New York a deadly center rotation. Should the Knicks get Capela, they should have no trouble figuring out how to use him because their play styles are comparable. Still, the Knicks will keep an eye on things as they try to bolster a group capable of contending for a title.
