Top 5 teams that can trade for Mitchell Robinson as New York Knicks reportedly ready to part ways with "longest tenured player"
Tom Thibodeau has preferred Mitchell Robinson as his starting center since the New York Knicks signed the coach in 2020. During that span, Robinson lined up for tip-off in 170 out of 193 games he's played. Thibodeau, who loves the big man’s shot-blocking, rebounding and activity, usually has him opening games.
Robinson, though, has been injury-prone. The current longest-tenured Knick has played 90 games over the last two seasons, including 31 during the 2023-24 campaign. Former Knick Isaiah Hartenstein eventually took over Robinson’s starting center role for Thibodeau.
Following the acquisition of All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns, the New York Knicks are reportedly taking calls regarding Mitchell Robinson’s trade availability. Despite his injury-prone history, center-needy teams could still try to lure him from the Big Apple.
5 teams who could pry Mitchell Robinson from the New York Knicks
#5 Denver Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets need some frontline help. Behind Nikola Jokic in the depth chart is DeAndre Jordan, who Mike Malone hardly plays. Malone often plays power forward Aaron Gordon at center when “The Joker” gets a rest.
Getting Mitchell Robinson from the New York Knicks should boost Denver’s poor frontcourt depth. To get Robinson, the Nuggets can offer Zeke Nnaji and a 2026 first-round pick.
Nnaji helps the Knicks’ frontline and gives the team much-needed cap relief and another first-round pick will be a big addition to New York’s assets.
Taking on Mitchell Robinson’s contract will be a tough pill to swallow for the Denver Nuggets, but it’s tougher to see Jokic without frontline help.
#4 Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies made Zach Edey the No. 9 pick in this year’s draft to take over from the traded Steven Adams. Edey might have some growing pains trying to adjust to the speed and pace of the NBA. Behind the rookie, Memphis can count on Jaren Jackson Jr. and Brandon Clark to play the frontcourt.
Memphis could try to pry Mitchell Robinson from the New York Knicks by sending them pieces like Santi Aldama and Vincent Wiliams Jr.
Tom Thibodeau could use Aldama alongside Karl-Anthony Towns if he can get the Spaniard. Aldama’s shooting gives the Knicks flexibility that Robinson couldn’t provide. Williams showed impressive potential in Memphis’ injury-plagued campaign last season.
With the regulars back, Williams would likely struggle to get minutes. Thibodeau’s backcourt can get a boost if New York can get the versatile wing to the roster.