The Knicks need a center to split the workload with Mitchell Robinson, who remains more of a situational star than a finely-tuned starting center. Isaiah Stewart has a sterling reputation and produced admirably in his lone season at Washington. The numbers alone should keep Stewart glued to the first round conversation.
While some would label Stewart as a “throwback” big — I’ve done it myself — he’s not just a throwback big. Sure, he’s a muscular post scorer who’s comfortable throwing his weight around. Sure, he may not defend in space as well as NBA teams would like. But he’s also an improving jump shooter who runs the floor hard. He can get up and down.
Stewart is an efficient scorer at the rim, a hard-nosed rebounder, and a man well-versed in the art of shot blocking. He’s not explosive, and Stewart isn’t the tallest center at 6-foot-9, but his bulk, effort, and length are often enough. He should carve out a nice role as New York’s backup center.