Knicks Rumors: Center Ariel Hukporti Lands 2-Year Contract Amid Giannis Trade Buzz As The New York Knicks Have a Series Of Roster Problems
The New York Knicks and rookie center Ariel Hukporti have reached an agreement on a standard two-year deal with a team option, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania on Monday.
The New York Knicks drafted Ariel Hukporti with the 58th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft and initially signed him to a two-way contract on July 8.
On Sunday, NBA insider Marc Stein reported that “more than one rival team” has speculated that the Knicks may have acquired All-Star center Karl-Anthony Towns with the intention of using him in a future trade for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
So far this season, Hukporti has played just 29 minutes over four games, recording seven rebounds and four blocks.
During the preseason, Hukporti demonstrated his athleticism and shot-blocking ability, averaging 4.0 points and 3.3 rebounds in 12.3 minutes per game. He also impressed with his efficiency, shooting 63.6 percent from the field.
Knicks mean bussines
As the season progresses, Hukporti may gradually take on a larger role, especially with starting center Mitchell Robinson expected to be sidelined until January 2025 due to recovery from multiple ankle surgeries, according to Charania.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks also highlighted that the Knicks must meet the minimum roster requirement of 14 players by Tuesday, with Hukporti currently occupying the 13th spot. Potential candidates to fill the final roster spot include shooting guards Landry Shamet and Matt Ryan, both of whom were selected with the top two picks in the 2024 G League draft by the Knicks’ affiliate on October 26.
While a trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo would be surprising, Knicks president Leon Rose has remained active in shaping the team over the past year. After acquiring OG Anunoby before the 2023-24 trade deadline, New York added Mikal Bridges in a major July 6 deal with the Brooklyn Nets, followed by the trade for Karl-Anthony Towns.
As Rose continues to build a stronger roster, Hukporti has earned a standard contract from the team and could see an expanded role in the future as the season unfolds.
