New York Knicks: 3 players most likely to be traded in 2018-19

2. Enes Kanter

When the Knicks traded Carmelo Anthony to the Oklahoma City Thunder prior to training camp last year, people were not high on the return package. However, as the season went on, the trade looked better and better for New York.

One of the key pieces that came back from Oklahoma City was Enes Kanter.

Yes, Kanter has his shortcomings defensively. He needs to be paired with a rim-protecting power forward, which is why he was a good combo with Kristaps Porzingis. While his defense leaves much to be desired, Kanter is an excellent offensive player and rebounder.

Last season, Kanter averaged 14.1 points, 11 rebounds and 1.5 assists in only 25.8 minutes per game. The rebounds and assists were both career highs, and he should once again stuff the stat sheet this upcoming season.

If the Knicks are not interested in signing Kanter to a long-term deal when he hits free agency next summer, they should be able to flip him for something at the trade deadline if they so desire.

Kanter has a chance to put up some gaudy numbers once again this offseason as a go-to option offensively.

With Mitchell Robinson waiting in the wings, Kanter could be traded at some point to open up some minutes at the center position. Luke Kornet and Isaiah Hicks would also see an uptick in minutes should Kanter be moved.

Kanter loves New York and the city has embraced him as well. However, if he is not in the Knicks’ long-term plans beyond this season, getting any sort of assets for him before he hits free agency would make sense.