Knicks' $60 Million Center Named Potential Trade Candidate Amid Extension Talks

Because of this, New York entered the offseason looking to upgrade their second unit and they were able to do so in free agency by signing Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele.

The Knicks also still have one open roster spot that they are expected to use to add another veteran player to their bench.

Mitchell Robinson named potential trade candidate

While the Knicks did upgrade their bench this offseason behind their starting five led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, one of their key reserves was recently named as a potential trade candidate this season.

The Athletic’s James L. Edwards III named Mitchell Robinson as a potential trade candidate as he enters the final season of his contract in New York.

“The most fascinating scenario that could present itself during the season is if Robinson doesn't miss time leading up to the trade deadline and is as dominant during the first 35 games of the regular season as he was in the playoffs,” Edwards III wrote. “Will the Knicks capitalize on his play and expiring contract and trade him then? Would New York keep him to continue their title chase, not break up the continuity and risk losing him in free agency? There are pros and cons to both in this scenario.”

Edwards III poses a key question about whether the Knicks would trade Robinson ahead of the trade deadline or elect to keep him around for a potential run at a championship.

Of course, Robinson has dealt with a ton of injuries since entering the NBA in 2018 but when he has been healthy, he has played a massive role off the bench for the Knicks.

The 27-year-old center is a great defender and rebounder who impressed during the playoff last season, even replacing Josh Hart in the starting lineup at times.

With his great play in the playoffs last season, Robinson proved to be a key piece of New York’s roster once again and with him being one of only a few big men on the roster, it would be a difficult decision for the Knicks to trade him.

Despite this, New York may be better off moving Robinson ahead of the trade deadline due to his injury history and the fact that he could leave in free agency next summer.