NBA Trade Rumors: Mitchell Robinson’s Name Surfaces in Knicks’ Conversations
With the NBA Draft just three days away and free agency set to begin next Sunday evening, teams around the league are actively exploring trade possibilities. While many of these conversations may ultimately prove irrelevant, the ones that result in actual trades are the ones that truly matter.
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In this context, it’s not surprising to hear that Mitchell Robinson’s name has come up in some of the New York Knicks’ trade conversations with opposing teams. The Washington Wizards are among the teams that have discussed Robinson with the Knicks, and it’s likely that several other teams have also inquired about the 26-year-old starting center.
If the Knicks do decide to trade Robinson this offseason, it would be unexpected if they executed a deal before or during the NBA Draft. The team would likely need to know the status of unrestricted free agent Isaiah Hartenstein before making a move. Hartenstein’s decision will likely impact the Knicks’ plans for Robinson.
The Knicks have likely been preparing for all scenarios involving Robinson and Hartenstein. According to sources, the team is weighing its options in case they lose Hartenstein or trade Robinson. One potential target if they need to pivot is Magic big man Goga Bitadze, although there are likely many other centers under consideration.
Regarding Hartenstein, it’s still likely that he will return to the Knicks if he’s deciding between their offer and a slightly higher offer from another team. The Knicks hold Hartenstein’s Early Bird Rights, which allows them to offer him a four-year contract worth up to $72 million, with a first-year salary of around $16 million. Teams with cap space, such as Orlando and Oklahoma City, can offer Hartenstein significantly more, which could be a tempting option. Additionally, the state income tax factor could come into play, with Oklahoma having a lower state income tax rate than New York and Florida having no state income tax.
The Knicks entered the free agency period feeling confident about their chances of retaining both Hartenstein and OG Anunoby, but they’re also aware that both players will attract interest on the open market.
