New York Knicks a great man was desperately needed out of season. This started with the loss of Isaiah Hartenstein, who signed a three-year, $87 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Then came the news that Mitchell Robinson, recovering from ankle surgery, was not expected to pitch until at least December or January.

But New York made a big splash just before the season started, acquiring All-Star star Karl-Anthony Towns in a three-team trade. It’s a huge thing for the organization, but KAT can’t do it if they can’t make it in the paint all season long and into the postseason.

The team’s reserves are Precious Achiuwa, who is smaller than the average center and is currently out with a left hamstring strain and is out for another two weeks, and Jericho Sims, who has been consistent throughout his minutes but still lacks on-field experience. Rookie Ariel Hukporti, a second-round draft pick who had big moments and a strong performance for the Knicks and was gone early despite improving in small minutes.

In the offseason, the Utah Jazz made headlines when young big man Walker Kessler’s name entered trade rumors. Last season, Kessler averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in just over 23 minutes per game. The junior forward has shown athleticism and leaping ability both offensively and defensively, especially when it comes to knocking down rebounds.

But the clock is ticking for New York if they want to push Kessler and help their new All-Star at the rim. The Los Angeles Lakers have shown interest in the Jazz forward, and when the Lakers put their mind to a player, anything can happen.

Los Angeles is looking to build a frontcourt around Anthony Davis, and Kessler will fill the backup center spot while Jaxson Hayes is the team’s usual backup.

Kessler made just $2.9 million this season and $4.9 million next season in the final year of his rookie-scale deal. That kind of salary is easily achievable for Los Angeles, which operates against tight margins due to tax aprons.

So if the Knicks want to take the pressure off Towns and make more room for a young forward while the team deals with injuries, they need to act before it’s too late.