Does this trade make sense for the New York Knicks?
Trading away Mitchell Robinson all depends on how the New York Knicks feel about Nerlens Noel and Taj Gibson this season. These two guys were great defensively for the Knicks last year and seeing as they are both under contract past this year, it seems like New York is going to utilize them moving forward.
Mitchell Robinson is not necessarily a “core” piece of the Knicks’ playoff puzzle right now and seeing as he only plays about 26 minutes per game, he is definitely replaceable. Plus, moving Robinson opens up the door for more playing time for Obi Toppin, the Knicks’ young and athletic power forward.
Toppin is a fan favorite and brings a lot of energy to this Knicks team off the bench, so finding ways to get him more involved definitely makes sense. Maxi Kleber is also another key talent this team can add to make a real playoff push.
Losing in the first round of the playoffs last year allowed the New York Knicks to realize that if they are to be a real contending threat, then they need more talent around Randle and Barrett.
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Going out and getting Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier has added more offensive weapons for this team, but Maxi Kleber could be the final piece for them given his two-way play on the perimeter in the frontcourt.
At a no-cost transaction for New York, this trade makes a lot of sense for them and ultimately saves them the hassle of trying to extend Mitchell Robinson long-term.
The young center has been good for them to this point in his career, but Robinson is not the difference in this team making a deep playoff run.
He can definitely help them no doubt, but Robinson’s role in the Knicks’ offensive attack is minimal and he is only really used as a rebounder and shot-blocker, something Noel and Gibson also do.
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Trading Mitchell Robinson at the trade deadline is looking more and more likely for the New York Knicks, but this move would definitely depend on the injury situations of both Robinson and Noel as well, as they have both missed time in the early window of the season.
