New York Knicks Face Key Decisions as Mitchell Robinson Enters Free Agency
The New York Knicks have made it to the Eastern Conference Finals for the second consecutive season, showcasing their growth and determination. While the team is focused on making a deep playoff run, they also face critical decisions this offseason, particularly regarding Mitchell Robinson, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent.
Mitchell Robinson has been one of the most consistent performers for the Knicks this season. His efficiency on both ends of the court has been impressive, and he has played a vital role in the team’s success. The 7-foot center averaged 5.7 points on 72.3% shooting from the field, 8.8 rebounds (4.2 offensive), and 1.2 blocks in less than 20 minutes per game over 60 regular-season appearances. He scored in double-figures 10 times and produced six double-doubles while grabbing double-figure rebounds 25 times, including four instances where he grabbed 15 or more boards. The Knicks were 40-20 in the games that Robinson appeared in.
Miles McBride, a teammate of Robinson, praised his performance and impact on the team:
“It feels like every year Mitch just continues to get better. He’s so important to our team. And when it’s time for him to show up, he shows up. … It’s huge for us to create opportunities at the offensive end. And obviously being at the rim and helping us in so many ways is huge.”
Robinson has continued to perform well during the Knicks’ current playoff run. The team is 8-2 in the playoffs, which is the second-best record behind Oklahoma City, and they are one of three teams to have advanced to the conference finals. The Knicks have been the league’s second-best postseason offensive and defensive teams, with the top point differential at +19.4.
During the playoffs, Robinson has been highly efficient on both ends, converting 20 of 26 shots from the field. The 27-year-old has also grabbed six or more boards in five of his nine appearances while blocking multiple shots on two occasions despite playing less than 15 minutes a game. Overall, he averages 5.7 points and 5.3 rebounds (2.8 offensive) this postseason.
Why Mitchell Robinson Is Expected to Attract Interest This Summer
Despite being limited offensively, Mitchell is one of the best reserve centers in the NBA. His athleticism and ability to grab offensive rebounds make him a valuable asset. He runs the floor well and is one of the vertical threats in the league, connecting on 74.3% of his attempts at the rim. Of his 169 field goals during the regular season, 159 were at the rim, with 112 being dunks. He made 91.1% of his dunk attempts.
On the defensive end, Robinson anchors the Knicks defense due to his ability to protect the rim. He is not only a capable shot-blocker but also a defender of drives. He moves well laterally and can defend in space.
Mitchell has spent his entire eight-year career with the Knicks. He is earning $12.9 million this year as the final season of his four-year, $60 million deal. However, the Knicks may not be able to afford him.
New York, which owns Robinson’s Bird Rights, is projected to be a first-round team. The Knicks have only nine players under contract for next season, with a salary cap hit of $205.4 million. They are $16.5 million below the second apron.
Mitchell should see a slight salary bump with his next contract. He is injury-prone and is expected to sign a two-year contract with salaries ranging from $13 million to $16 million per season.
Teams That Could Be Interested in UFA Mitchell Robinson
Sacramento Kings
The Kings could be the Knicks’ biggest competition for Robinson. Although several other teams could throw money at him: Oklahoma City, Utah, Washington, Portland, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Chicago are also potential suitors.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder would appear to be unlikely suitors. But the Thunder have decisions to make as they have a $250,000 salary cap hit. If they decide not to pick up Isaiah Hartenstein’s $28.5 million team option or Kenrich Williams’ options, they may have some room. Although OKC will still have to make another move or two.
Utah Jazz
Utah plans on competing this season. Robinson could be a cheap replacement for restricted free agent Walker Kessler, if he walks or the team trades him in a sign-and-trade deal.
Washington Wizards
The Wizards could use some depth behind Alex Sarr and Anthony Davis. The Wizards project to be well below the tax line.
Portland Trail Blazers
Portland isn’t expected to make an earth-shattering move, though Jrue Holiday and Jerami Grant are potential trade chips. Granted, the Blazers have been linked to Giannis Antetokounmpo, but they are long shots to acquire him.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers have plenty of big decisions to make this offseason and significant cap room. The Lakers do need to upgrade their bench and frontcourt. So, depending on what other moves the Lakers make, Mitchell could be a potential candidate to land in LA.
Los Angeles Clippers
Like their crosstown rival, the Clippers have many decisions ahead of them. The Clippers lucked into the No.5 pick in this year’s draft, which could propel them into a major rebuild. Kawhi Leonard enters the last season of his contract next season, while Bogdan Bogdanovic, Brook Lopez, and Nic Batum have team options this summer.
Chicago Bulls
Chicago has the most money to spend this summer, with 10 players under contract with a salary cap hit of $95.3 million. The Bulls own the No. 4 and 15th picks in this year’s draft, plus two second-round choices. They currently don’t have a center on their roster for next season.
