Why the Knicks are likely to part ways with Mitchell Robinson despite NBA title

The New York Knicks relied on Mitchell Robinson in a big way in recent seasons.

A dominant offensive rebounder and great rim protector, Robinson overcame his shortcomings to become a huge piece of a team that won its first NBA title in 53 years.

Robinson may not get to be a part of the group trying to repeat, though.

Reports continue to indicate that Robinson may not get a new contract with the Knicks.

Robinson is an unrestricted free agent, which would leave New York at risk of getting outbid, and potentially by quite a bit.

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Why are the Knicks getting rid of Mitchell Robinson?

This all comes back to the money.

"Heard it’s unlikely Mitchell Robinson will be back with Knicks next season," Stefan Bondy of the New York Post wrote on X. "He’s longest tenured Knick but also an unrestricted free agent. Owner James Dolan said he’s unwilling to pay into second apron so running it back with bench is not feasible."

Robinson is a tricky player, because he doesn't necessarily have the kind of game to overpay for.

He can't shoot from the outside (and he also can't shoot foul shots). His offensive game is essentially limited to putbacks.

In the modern NBA, Robinson is really only a backup center for a championship contender, like he just was behind Karl-Anthony Towns. 

Would the Knicks keep Robinson at a discount? Sure, they like him. 

But the second apron of the salary cap is quite restrictive as far as future roster moves, so maybe the Knicks go a different direction.

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