The New York Knicks face some tough decisions this NBA offseason as they continue to build around Jalen Brunson. The priority naturally will be to secure OG Anunoby on a long-term contract with him, who is set to hit free agency. Still, another focus will be the center position.
According to Ian Begley of SNY, the Washington Wizards have reportedly engaged in discussions with the Knicks about acquiring their starting center, Mitchell Robinson. Begley added that it would be unexpected for Robinson to get traded at any point of the week of the NBA Draft.
“So the fact that Mitchell Robinson’s name has come up in some of the Knicks’ trade conversations with opposing teams isn’t all that surprising (The Wizards are among the teams whose talks with the Knicks have included dialogue on Robinson. I’m sure several other teams have talked to New York about Robinson, their 26-year-old starting center),” Begley reported.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mitchell Robinson, Washington Wizards, New York Knicks Updates
Robinson, 26, averaged 5.6 points and 8.5 rebounds per game this season, appearing in only 31 games due to an ankle injury. He underwent surgery on his left ankle during the second round of the playoffs against the Indiana Pacers. It’s been a struggle for Robinson to avoid injuries throughout his career. He only appeared in 59 games in 2022-23 and has played at least 65 games only twice in six seasons.
Our sources indicate the Knicks favor Isaiah Hartenstein as a long-term center option over Robinson. Hartenstein has commanded interest from several teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder, and could receive offers up to $100 million this offseason.
On Friday, Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer reported that Hartenstein is “generally expected” to re-sign with New York. However, if Hartenstein signs elsewhere in free agency, New York might need to reconsider its stance on trading Robinson or look for another center in a potential deal.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mitchell Robinson, Washington Wizards, New York Knicks Updates
A different team could emerge as a trade suitor for Robinson, considering the Wizards could address this position well using the NBA Draft. There is building momentum for Alex Sarr to end up with Washington using the 2nd overall pick amid his ongoing attempts to avoid the Atlanta Hawks.
If a trade with the Wizards doesn’t transpire, the Knicks still have several other teams interested in Robinson. New York has been actively exploring trade options for their veteran center, so Washington is just one of many possible destinations.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mitchell Robinson, Washington Wizards, New York Knicks Updates
Robinson’s impact as a finisher in the paint, offensive rebounder, and rim protector should command significant interest around the NBA. However, teams also have to deal with his consistent cryptic postings about his offensive role.
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