The New York Knicks have been active in making significant moves aimed at securing a championship, with many of these falling into the “blockbuster” category. However, their most recent transaction might not attract as much attention.
Per ESPN senior insider Shams Charania, the Knicks are converting center Ariel Hukporti’s two-way contract into a standard two-year deal. Although the 2024 No. 58 draft pick has logged only 29 minutes with New York so far this season, he has already showcased his potential as an intimidating rim-protector.
As a reminder, Mitchell Robinson is not anticipated to return from injury until next year, possibly in January. This means the upcoming two months will be crucial for both the rookie and the team. The imposing Ariel Hukporti, standing at 7 feet tall and weighing 246 pounds, could play a key role while the Knicks wait for Robinson’s return.
New York still possesses strong depth at the center position without Robinson. Karl-Anthony Towns, acquired shortly before the season began, has been a game-changer as a 7-foot stretch-five. Jericho Sims, a traditional center at 6-foot-10 and 245 pounds, averages 13.8 minutes per game. However, Hukporti enhances their paint protection, boasting an impressive average of 5.0 blocks per 36 minutes.
**It’s Not Just About Him**
Elevating Hukporti to the standard 15-man roster has additional advantages.
This move opens up a two-way spot, which the Knicks might use to sign a younger free agent. Currently, the team’s major weaknesses lie in rebounding and rim protection, so they could also look to bring in another big man. Signing another center who can stretch the floor, such as Chimezie Metu or Omer Yurtseven, might be on the agenda.
Hukporti also provides the team with added security if they decide to trade one of their existing bigs, whether it be Robinson, Sims, or even Precious Achiuwa.
If the Knicks view Towns as their center of the future, Robinson could find himself as the odd man out. Although Robinson has generally been more effective than New York’s other bigs, apart from Towns, his potential free agency in 2026 complicates matters. Given the team’s current financial commitments, keeping Robinson on a lucrative contract may become a challenging situation.
