The New York Knicks' 2024-25 season got off to a rocky start after getting dominated by the Boston Celtics on opening night. That loss led to a lot of questions surrounding the Knicks, who were supposed to be the team to challenge the defending champion Celtics this season.
New York did get better over the summer, adding Mikal Bridges and swapping out Julius Randle for Karl-Anthony Towns, but they sacrificed a lot of depth in the process to make those deals. That was made worse with center Mitchell Robinson expected to be out until January and backup big man Precious Achiuwa being out for at least the first two weeks of the season.
With concerns surrounding their depth, especially at center, the Knicks tried to trade for Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler only for the Jazz to demand two first-round picks. After the Bridges trade, the Knicks are light on picks, seemingly putting him out of their price range. Worse yet, Kessler's strong performance to start the season reminds the Knicks what they are missing.
Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler reminds the New York Knicks what they are missing.
In his first game of the season, Kessler was terrific against the Memphis Grizzlies, posting 16 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 blocks in just 30 minutes.
Walker Kessler looking strong and revitalized...
— NBA University (@NBA_University) October 24, 2024
Nasty rim protection and deterrence. His length and instincts in drop have been excellent for years. If this improvement in physicality sticks and he continues to work the O-glass hard he's going to be a highly impactful player. https://t.co/sSRSRCizd9 pic.twitter.com/JzmhQf8xA1
His rim protection was on full display, with him warding off drives to the basket and effectively contesting shots at the rim. He is currently averaging 8.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks in only 26.5 minutes per game.
Kessler, despite being one of the best rim protectors in the league, including ranking fourth in the NBA in blocks, has been on the trade block for a while now and the Knicks could use him. Whether they can land him is unclear, with them having limited assets.
They might potentially be able to work out a three-team deal involving Robinson to land Kessler. That would give the Knicks a more reliable center who is also far cheaper—at least for two more seasons since he is still on his rookie contract.
If New York continues to play Towns at center, then Kessler would be an above-average backup big man. However, if New York decides against Towns continuing to play center, then they could insert Kessler into the starting five and go with Jalen Brunson, Bridges, OG Anunoby, Towns, and Kessler.
That would give them a terrific defensive lineup with three well above average defensive players and more than enough offense to thrive. Ultimately, Kessler's strong showing early on this season should have gotten New York's attention. If the Knicks stumble out of the gate or struggle against the best teams in the NBA, they should try again to acquire Kessler.