NBA Trade Rumors: Hawks’ Clint Capela Eyed By Knicks; NY Checked in amid Lakers Buzz

NBA Trade Rumors: Hawks’ Clint Capela Eyed By Knicks; NY Checked in amid Lakers Buzz
Andrew PetersJuly 18, 2024

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 03:  Clint Capela #15 of the Atlanta Hawks dunks against Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons during the second quarter at State Farm Arena on April 03, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

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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.

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