Mitchell Robinson – New York Knicks
Unrestricted Free Agent – 2021-22 Salary: $1,802,057
In addition to figuring out the futures of head coach Tom Thibodeau, All-Star Julius Randle and other surrounding talents like Alec Burks, Kemba Walker and Nerlens Noel, the Knicks will also need to figure out their long-term plan in the frontcourt with Mitchell Robinson being an unrestricted free agent.
Currently in the final year of his rookie contract, Robinson has been the starting center for the Knicks the last two, two-and-a-half years and has been one of their more consistent talents.
Not only did Robinson lead the league in field goal percentage during the 2019-20 season, but Mitchell Robinson has been a consistent double-double threat for New York.
Averaging 8.4 points and 8.7 rebounds on the year, Mitchell Robinson has recorded 16 total double-doubles this season, including three double-doubles in his last five games.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Possible Free Agent Destinations For Jalen Brunson
While he may not be their best overall talent and not someone they can necessarily build around, Mitchell Robinson has been a steady piece in the Knicks core for quite some time and replacing him could be tough to do.
The Knicks do have Nerlens Noel and Taj Gibson under contract next season, but Noel has only played in 25 games this year due to injuries and Gibson is going to be turning 37-years-old in June.
With no other key big men being available in free agency this upcoming offseason, the Knicks are kind of stuck here with their pending decision in regards to Mitchell Robinson.
Keeping him long-term on a new, higher paying deal could negatively affect the Knicks’ chances of landing another All-Star talent within the next few years, but letting Robinson sign elsewhere could result in the Knicks being left with no consistent play at the center position.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Possible Free Agent Destinations For Jalen Brunson
As of right now, the Knicks do seem to have interest in keeping Mitvhell Robinson past this season. However, GM Scott Perry and team president Leon Rose are going to be considerate about saving cap space in order to potentially add another All-Star to their roster either in the offseason or at the trade deadline during the 2022-23 season.
There is a real chance that Mitchell Robinson could sign elsewhere if he does not receive the offer he is looking for from New York.
