New York Knicks Center Mitchell Robinson: Will He Return to be Traded?
Dec 8, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson (23) looks on during the first half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson has yet to play a game this year as he finishes the final portions of his recovery from offseason ankle surgery — and with it comes a race against the clock.
The Trade Rumors
A report from SNY’s Ian Begley revealed that the Knicks are optimistic that Robinson could make his season debut by early to mid-February. The return to full health would come at a near-perfect time for team president Leon Rose if he is determined to trade the 26-year-old 7-footer. The NBA trade deadline is on Feb. 6, and reports in recent weeks have divulged that teams have called the Knicks about Robinson’s availability.
Pros of Trading Robinson
In theory, a deal to eliminate Robinson’s $14 million salary this season would provide the Knicks with some more financial flexibility in the future. He is also due $13 million next year before hitting free agency.
Dealing him would also yield a better return than what they would get from trading away Jericho Sims, another Knicks big man whose name has been in trade talks recently. When healthy, Robinson is an elite offensive rebounder (he averaged more than four o-boards per game in each of the previous three seasons) and presence in the paint that contending teams would surely love to add to their frontcourt.
Cons of Trading Robinson
Robinson is one of the longest-tenured Knicks players, with the trust of head coach Tom Thibodeau and his remarkably tight rotations. Getting him back into the mix would boost New York’s depth behind Karl-Anthony Towns, even with that sizable contract, and help what has been a mediocre defense this season with significant rim protection.
The Current State of the Knicks’ Frontcourt
While Robinson has been out, Precious Achiuwa, Ariel Hukporti, and Sims have been providing sporadic relief behind Towns. Achiuwa is averaging 5.5 points and 5.5 rebounds in 18.8 minutes per game, but Sims and Hukporti are averaging less than two points per game this season. Sims is averaging 12.1 minutes per night and 3.7 rebounds, while Hukporti is seeing just 7.9 minutes per game and 1.9 boards.
Conclusion
The decision to trade Robinson would depend on the team’s priorities. While it could provide financial flexibility and a better return, it would also mean parting ways with a talented and trusted player. The Knicks will need to weigh the pros and cons as they decide the fate of their center.
FAQs
* What is the NBA trade deadline?
+ The NBA trade deadline is on Feb. 6.
* How much is Mitchell Robinson due this season?
+ He is due $14 million this season.
* What is Mitchell Robinson’s contract situation for next season?
+ He is due $13 million next year before hitting free agency.
* Who are the other big men on the Knicks’ roster?
+ Precious Achiuwa, Ariel Hukporti, and Jericho Sims are the other big men on the Knicks’ roster.
