The New York Knicks have been one of the most active teams of the 2024 NBA offseason, with their blockbuster trade for Mikal Bridges at the center of the action. They have also been linked to numerous players in potential trade rumors, and the latest report signals their interest in former Utah Jazz first-round pick Walker Kessler.
According to Bleacher Report’s Eric PincusThe Knicks and Jazz have had a “stalled conversation” about a possible deal for Kessler.
“According to multiple sources, Utah has already discussed Kessler in a trade, including in a stalled conversation with the New York Knicks,” Pincus wrote.
That’s an interesting tidbit, and Kessler, the 22nd overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft, would have been a solid addition for the Knicks. Kessler averaged 9.2 points and 8.4 rebounds on 72 percent shooting as a rookie, then went on to record 8.1 points and 7.5 rebounds on 65.4 percent shooting.
The Knicks’ pursuit of Kessler was likely due to the departure of center Isaiah Hartenstein, who signed a three-year, $87 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
While the Knicks appear largely ready heading into the 2024-25 NBA season, they remain a team to watch as this season’s trade deadline approaches, especially if they remain interested in adding front-court talent.
