The Knicks traded Willy Hernangomez to the Hornets

One day before the trade deadline, we have perhaps our first of a number of moves that the Knicks will make in the wake of Kristaps Porzingis’ ACL tear last night.

New York is sending Willy Hernangomez, who has been very vocal about wanting more playing time or to be traded in recent days, to the Charlotte Hornets for big man Johnny O’Bryant and two second-round picks (Charlotte’s picks in 2020 and 2021):

Instant analysis: it’s too early to tell if this trade will be good or bad for the Knicks. O’Bryant has been pretty underwhelming in parts of four seasons so far in his career, and he plays the same position as Hernangomez, leaving the Knicks still overloaded at center. The two second-round picks could be valuable, however, if nothing else than to use as trade sweeteners down the line.

Willy leaves the Knicks with 98 total games played over parts of two seasons and averages of 7.1 points and 5.8 rebounds. But more importantly, he charmed us for two years with his lovely smile and adorable best friendship with Kristaps.

Vaya con dios, Willy. Ya te extrañamos.