Knicks’ $60 million big man viewed as a potential trade candidate

Justin Backer

Knicks’ $60 million big man viewed as a potential trade candidate  image

New York Knicks big man Mitchell Robinson has been involved in trade rumors for the past few seasons. With the end of his contract nearing, rumors are once again heating up regarding the longest-tenured Knick.

Robinson is in the final year of a four-year, $60 million contract, and is eligible for an extension. However, Robinson’s lengthy injury history has kept the Knicks at bay in terms of an extension.

Last season, Robinson appeared in just 17 games, averaging 5.1 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. When he’s on the court, Robinson is one of the best offensive rebounders and rim protectors in the sport. However, his availability has been the exact issue.

ESPN’s Bobby Marks projects that Robinson is a possible trade candidate given the Knicks’ current financial standing.

“He has been extension-eligible since July and, without a new contract, will be an unrestricted free agent next summer,” Marks said. “If the Knicks keep the roster intact and re-sign Robinson, New York is a projected second-apron team next season.”

For now, Robinson is still with the Knicks, and should be a key component to a team that enters this year as potential championship contenders in the Eastern Conference. In 2025-26, the Knicks have a real shot at snapping a 52-year title drought, and securing their first championship since 1973. 

Justin Backer

Justin Backer is a freelance writer for The Sporting News. A graduate of Florida Atlantic University, Justin began his sports writing career in 2023 and has previously written for Empire Sports Media and currently covers FAU Athletics for The Palm Beach Post.