The New York Knicks face a challenging situation at the center position following the trade of Nick Richards to the Phoenix Suns, a player they had considered acquiring. Richards, who joins the Suns from the Charlotte Hornets, averaged an impressive 11.3 points and 10.2 rebounds in nine starts this season. His efficiency could have significantly bolstered a Knicks team dealing with injury concerns, particularly with Mitchell Robinson recovering from ankle surgery and Karl-Anthony Towns sidelined by a thumb sprain.

The Knicks have limited options at center, with Jericho Sims starting in Towns' absence. The trade market poses difficulties for New York due to their hard-cap status and lack of first-round draft picks, but the team does have valuable second-round picks that could facilitate potential deals. The upcoming NBA Trade Deadline on Feb. 6 looms as a critical moment for the Knicks to address their roster needs.