The New York Knicks had a successful 2023-24 season, finishing with a 50-32 record and securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference. Despite their regular-season success, they were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Indiana Pacers, partly due to multiple injuries on their roster. As they head into the offseason, the Knicks are looking to solidify their position in the East. One move they are considering is trading center Mitchell Robinson, who has been dealing with injuries and may be expendable with the potential return of free agent Isaiah Hartenstein.
Mitchell Robinson, a key member of the Knicks since he was drafted in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft, has shown improvement each season, particularly on the defensive end. However, his struggles with injuries have limited his playing time, appearing in only 31 games last season. With two years left on his contract, Robinson is owed $14 million this upcoming season and $12 million in the 2025-26 season, making his contract relatively affordable compared to others in the league. His defensive presence and potential to elevate a contender could make him a sought-after trade chip for teams looking to add size to their roster.
The Knicks, looking to potentially move Robinson, are expected to seek at least one first-round pick in return for the talented center. Teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers, as well as others in need of frontcourt help, could be interested in acquiring Robinson to bolster their roster. In a league where size and defense are becoming increasingly important, Robinson’s skill set could make him a valuable asset for a team looking to contend for a championship. While it remains to be seen what decision the Knicks will make regarding Robinson, his time in New York may be coming to an end this offseason.
The potential trade of Mitchell Robinson is not the only move the Knicks are considering this offseason. With a few pieces on the roster that they can move around, New York is likely exploring various options to improve their team for the upcoming season. As they aim to establish themselves as a strong contender in the Eastern Conference, the Knicks will need to make strategic decisions to address their roster needs and build a competitive team. With the competition in the NBA getting tougher each year, the Knicks will need to make smart moves to stay competitive and make a deep playoff run.
Ultimately, the success of the New York Knicks in the upcoming season will depend on the decisions they make in the offseason and how they address their roster needs. Trading Mitchell Robinson could be a significant move that shapes the team’s future, as they look to strengthen their lineup and improve their chances of competing at a high level in the Eastern Conference. With the potential return of Isaiah Hartenstein and other roster moves on the horizon, the Knicks are focused on making the right moves to position themselves for success in the upcoming season. As they navigate the offseason, the Knicks will need to make smart and strategic decisions to build a competitive team that can make a deep playoff run and contend for a championship.
