Knicks Face Tough Rivalry for 2026 Big Man, Pacific Team in Pursuit

The New York Knicks' Path to the NBA Finals

The New York Knicks have made it to the Eastern Conference Finals for the second consecutive season, marking a significant milestone in their journey. While the team is focused on achieving their first trip to the NBA Finals this century, they also face critical decisions during the upcoming offseason. One of these key decisions involves Mitchell Robinson, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent.

Mitchell Robinson's Performance and Impact

Mitchell Robinson has been playing at an exceptional level this season, showcasing his offensive efficiency and defensive prowess. The 7-foot center averaged 5.7 points on 72.3% shooting from the field, 8.8 rebounds (4.2 offensive), and 1.2 blocks in less than 20 minutes per game over 60 regular-season appearances. He scored in double-figures 10 times and produced six double-doubles while grabbing double-figure rebounds 25 times, including four instances where he grabbed more than 15 boards.

The Knicks were 40-20 in the games that Robinson appeared in, highlighting his crucial role on the team. Miles McBride, a teammate, remarked on Robinson’s importance: “It feels like every year Mitch just continues to get better. He’s so important to our team. And when it’s time for him to show up, he shows up. … It’s huge for us to create opportunities at the offensive end. And obviously being at the rim and helping us in so many ways is huge.”

Playoff Performance and Potential

Robinson has continued to shine during the Knicks’ playoff run. The team is 8-2 in the playoffs, which is the second-best record behind Oklahoma City, and are one of three teams to have advanced to the conference finals. The Knicks have been the league’s second-best postseason offensive and defensive teams, with the top point differential at +19.4.

In the playoffs, Robinson has been highly efficient on both ends, converting 20 of 26 shots from the field. The 27-year-old has also grabbed six or more boards in five of his nine appearances while blocking multiple shots on two occasions despite playing less than 15 minutes a game. Overall, he averages 5.7 points and 5.3 rebounds (2.8 offensive) this postseason.

Why Robinson Is Expected to Draw Interest

Despite being limited offensively, Mitchell is one of the best reserve centers in the NBA. His athleticism, offensive rebounding ability, and vertical threat make him a valuable asset. He connects on 74.3% of his attempts at the rim, with 159 of his 169 field goals during the regular season coming at the rim, including 112 dunks. He made 91.1% of his dunk attempts.

On the defensive end, Robinson anchors the Knicks defense due to his ability to protect the rim. He is not only a capable shot-blocker but also a defender of drives, moving well laterally and defending in space.

Financial Considerations and Potential Suitors

Mitchell has spent his entire eight-year career with the Knicks, earning $12.9 million this year as the final season of his four-year, $60 million deal. However, the Knicks may not be able to afford him, as they are projected to be a first-round team next season. With a salary cap hit of $205.4 million, the Knicks are $16.5 million below the second apron.

Mitchell should see a slight salary bump with his next contract. He is injury-prone and is expected to sign a two-year contract with salaries ranging from $13 million to $16 million per season. The Sacramento Kings could be the Knicks’ biggest competition for Robinson, along with other teams such as Oklahoma City, Utah, Washington, Portland, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Chicago.

Teams That Could Be Interested in UFA Mitchell Robinson

Sacramento Kings

The Kings’ general manager, Scott Perry, drafted Robinson while he was with the Knicks and has reportedly been a huge fan of the big man. However, the Kings are in a similar financial situation to the Knicks. They have 11 players under contract for 2026-27 with a salary cap hit of $205.1 million. Zach LaVine has a $48.9 million player option and will be hard to move, while Domantas Sabonis likely won’t be moved unless the Kings want to rebuild completely.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder would appear to be unlikely suitors, but they have decisions to make as they have a $250,000 salary cap hit. If they decide not to pick up Isaiah Hartenstein’s $28.5 million team option or Kenrich Williams’ options, they may have some room.

Utah Jazz

Utah plans on competing this season. Robinson could be a cheap replacement for restricted free agent Walker Kessler, if he walks or the team trades him in a sign-and-trade deal.

Washington Wizards

The Wizards could use some depth behind Alex Sarr and Anthony Davis. They project to be well below the tax line.

Portland Trail Blazers

Portland isn’t expected to make an earth-shaking move, though Jrue Holiday and Jerami Grant are potential trade chips. The Blazers have 12 players currently on the roster for 2026-27 and are well below the tax line. As it stands now, the Blazers could use a veteran to back up Donovan Clingan.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers have plenty of big decisions to make this offseason and significant cap room. They need to upgrade their bench and frontcourt, making Mitchell a potential candidate depending on other moves.

Los Angeles Clippers

Like their crosstown rival, the Clippers have many decisions ahead of them. The Clippers lucked into the No.5 pick in this year’s draft, which could propel them into a major rebuild. Kawhi Leonard enters the last season of his contract next season, while Bogdan Bogdanovic, Brook Lopez, and Nic Batum have team options this summer.

Chicago Bulls

Chicago has the most money to spend this summer, with 10 players under contract with a salary cap hit of $95.3 million. The Bulls own the No. 4 and 15th picks in this year’s draft, plus two second-round choices. They currently don’t have a center on their roster for next season.

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