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Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela has reportedly drawn interest from the New York Knicks amid links to the Los Angeles Lakers, per SNY’s Ian Begley.
“Clint Capela, Atlanta, was one big that the Knicks checked in on,” Begley reported. “I don’t know how far talks went. I don’t know if they’re active at this very moment. But they did check in on Capela.”
Begley also noted that Mitchell Robinson would likely be involved in a package for Capela.
New York Basketball @NBA_NewYork
“Clint Capela Atlanta was one big that the Knicks checked in on. I don’t know how far talks went. I don’t know if they’re active at this very moment. But they did check in on Capela”
— More from Ian Begley including other centers: https://t.co/R3HpGHwJq4 pic.twitter.com/Ni0PVvZ72p
The Knicks are looking to replace big man Isaiah Hartenstein, who departed in free agency for the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Capela could be a solid fill-in.
The veteran averaged 11.5 points and 10.6 rebounds per game last season, also adding 1.5 blocks per game. While Capela’s numbers have decreased slightly over the past few seasons, he still brings a lot to the table in terms of his presence in the paint, and that’s all New York really needs from a big man.
As the Knicks potentially craft up a deal for Capela, he’s already reportedly “on the trade market” for Atlanta ahead of the start of the 2024-25 season. In return, the Hawks could land a talented player in Robinson or some future draft picks if they decide to move toward a rebuild.
Robinson alone likely wouldn’t be enough for Atlanta to send Capela to the Knicks, so New York might have to prepare a somewhat sizeable offer.
Capela could be the missing piece for the Knicks after they came up short of competing for a championship last season. New York is certainly on its way to being a Finals contender following a successful year, but making a few moves before the start of the seasons could be beneficial.
