The New York Knicks currently boast a loaded starting five ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, but they could end up making some massive moves this summer as they push toward an NBA Finals appearance.
After falling to the Pacers in the Eastern Conference finals, it wouldn’t be surprising if New York looks to engage in trade discussions in the coming months. One player to watch in those talks is Mitchell Robinson, according to Frank Isola of ESPN.
Robinson is slated to become an unrestricted free agent after this upcoming season, and the Knicks could consider parting ways with the big man.
While the 27-year-old center remains a talented rim protector and rebounder, his poor free-throw shooting was exposed in the playoffs, when he shot just 39.3 percent from the charity stripe. Additionally, the Knicks may seek a more cost-effective option to back up Karl-Anthony Towns.
Robinson has spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Knicks, averaging 7.4 points, 7.7 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game while shooting 70 percent from the field during that span. However, the 7-footer hasn’t played more than 59 regular-season games in each of the past three years, and ongoing injury concerns could further motivate New York to move on from him.
With Precious Achiuwa entering unrestricted free agency, frontcourt depth could become an issue. Still, trading Robinson could free up valuable cap space and potentially create an opportunity for 2024 second-round pick Ariel Hukporti to earn minutes in the Knicks’ rotation.
