The New York Knicks, having earned their second straight Eastern Conference Semifinals berth, are actively assessing multiple free agent choices, including that of starting center Isaiah Hartenstein.
Hartenstein is set to draw significant interest in the upcoming free agency period. The experienced center has made a strong impression during his two years with the New York Knicks, elevating his market value and making a move to another team probable for the 2024-25 season.
Despite expressing his desire to remain in New York, the six-year center is likely to receive enticing offers from multiple teams with greater cap space than the Knicks, making his decision challenging.
Isaiah Hartenstein playing with the young guns of the Orlando Magic
Michael Scotto from HoopsHype suggests that the Orlando Magic may be interested in pursuing Isaiah Hartenstein. He noted insights from rival NBA executives indicating that the Magic could be a potential destination for Hartenstein.
The Magic represent a promising young squad poised to become a significant force in the Eastern Conference soon. Adding Hartenstein would bring a dependable presence to their lineup, whether as a starter or coming off the bench.
This season, he played 75 games for the Knicks, posting averages of 7.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists while shooting an impressive 64.4% from the field.
The Magic are in a transitional phase, looking to add experienced players to complement their budding young talents like Paolo Banchero, Jalen Suggs, and Franz Wagner. Securing someone like Hartenstein would be a significant boost for team cohesion and leadership in the locker room, providing stability during the team's growth and development stages.
A move to the Western Conference or staying with the Knicks?
Certainly, other teams in the league, such as the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference, are showing interest in acquiring Hartenstein.
Eric Pincus, writing for Bleacher Report, predicts that this summer will see Hartenstein inking a three-year, $60-million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder. He points out that the Knicks can only offer Hartenstein $16.2 million per year.
In a discussion with Scotto on April 5, Hartenstein indicated that he may not be keen on leaving the Knicks. Nonetheless, he acknowledged the practicalities of the basketball business and its potential implications for his tenure with New York.
“I’m focused on what I’m doing right now,” Hartenstein said.
“I know I’ve put myself in a great position to get a little upgrade. Right now, I’m focused on the Knicks. I love it here, and hopefully, we’ll figure something out, but at the end of the day, business is business.”
However, Hartenstein expressed certainty that he would remain in New York if the team matched any offer he received.
The 26-year-old center and the Knicks can start discussing a new contract after the NBA Finals, with negotiations possible between June 14 and June 23.
Joining the Magic would be a logical move for Hartenstein. He can maintain his success in the Eastern Conference, contribute significantly to a team on the rise, and solidify his position as a key leader. This opportunity is well-deserved for him, and if the offer presents itself, it would be prudent for him to seriously consider it.
Team and player discussions league-wide won't commence until June 30. Whenever that happens, the New York front office is poised to present a competitive offer. Ultimately, the decision rests with Hartenstein.
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