Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela is reportedly drawing interest from the New York Knicks amid links to the Los Angeles Lakers, according to SNY's Ian Begley.
“Atlanta's Clint Capela was one of the big men the Knicks had their eye on,” Begley reported. “I don't know how far the negotiations went, I don't know if they're still active, but they had their eye on Capela.”
Begley also noted that Mitchell Robinson would likely be included in the package to acquire Capela.
The Knicks are looking to replace big man Isaiah Hartenstein, who left in free agency to join the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Capela could be a reliable replacement.
The veteran averaged 11.5 points and 10.6 rebounds per game last season, along with 1.5 blocks. Capela's numbers have dipped slightly over the past few seasons, but he's still a big contributor in terms of his presence in the paint, which is all New York really wants from a big man.
While the Knicks could potentially finalize a deal with Capela, he is reportedly already on the trade market to Atlanta ahead of the 2024-25 season, and the Hawks could potentially acquire the talented Robinson and future draft picks in return if they decide to pursue a rebuild.
Robinson alone likely wouldn't be enough for Atlanta to send Capela to the Knicks, so New York may have to come up with a sizable offer.
Capela could be the missing piece for the Knicks after they came up short on winning a championship last season. New York is poised to become a Finals contender after a strong year, but making a few moves before the season starts could give them an advantage.
