’Top Rim-Running Center on the Board’ — Western Conference Team Looking to ’Barge Into Mix’ for Knicks’ Mitchell Robinson

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The New York Knicks are coming off a title-winning campaign, but with free agency set to begin soon, keeping the entire roster together is looking increasingly difficult.

One name drawing attention is Mitchell Robinson, who will hit free agency, and the Knicks have yet to decide whether they intend to re-sign him.

Sacramento Kings Exploring Path to Land Mitchell Robinson Despite Financial Hurdles​


The Knicks have made several roster adjustments to create financial flexibility, though additional cost-cutting moves could still be on the table. That possibility has triggered speculation surrounding Robinson and his future with the franchise.

According to SNY’s Ian Begley, Robinson is expected to draw strong interest from multiple teams around the league if he becomes available. Among the franchises linked to the Knicks big man are the Sacramento Kings, with Begley identifying them as a logical destination.

That connection was reinforced in the latest report from “The Stein Line,” which pointed to Sacramento’s interest despite financial hurdles.

“The Knicks’ Mitchell Robinson obviously bills as the top rim-running center on the board among unrestricted free agents,” the report stated.

“We’ve already reported here that both the Nets and the Lakers are expected to try to pry Robinson away from the Knicks.”

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“It appears unlikely that Sacramento can generate the needed financial flexibility to compete with those offers, but word is that the Kings would very much like to barge into the Robinson mix if possible, if they can unexpectedly manufacture additional maneuverability by trading away a veteran or two.”

Robinson has spent his entire NBA career with the Knicks, making him the franchise’s longest-tenured player and a key figure in the team’s recent success.

ESPN’s Brian Windhorst recently suggested Robinson’s chances of returning to the Knicks are essentially a coin flip, estimating them at “50/50… maybe 51/49,” while the organization has yet to make a firm commitment regarding his future.

Even Robinson himself seemed largely uncertain about his future with the Knicks as he navigates free agency. He played a crucial role in helping the Knicks to their first NBA Championship in 53 years.

This past season, Robinson made an impact despite his limited scoring role, averaging 5.7 points and 8.8 rebounds across 60 appearances.

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A move to Sacramento could make sense, particularly if the Kings decide to reshape through a potential Domantas Sabonis trade.

There is also familiarity between Robinson and the organization, as current Kings general manager Scott Perry was part of the Knicks front office that selected Robinson in the 2018 NBA Draft.

Meanwhile, “The Stein Line” added that if Robinson ultimately leaves New York because of the team’s tightening financial situation under the second apron, the reigning champions are expected to pursue an experienced replacement. One frequently mentioned name is former Golden State Warriors center Kevon Looney.

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