New York Knicks: Ranking the trade assets, post-Kristaps Porzingis

3. Mitchell Robinson

It’s a near match between Mitchell Robinson and Kevin Knox, but the former barely falls behind for his raw offensive game. There are hurdles for him to take that’ll take years, and it’s no guarantee he completes the necessary steps to become a low-post force.

However, in spurts, the New York Knicks’ 2018 second-round pick showed what could routinely do down the line, and it’s enticing.

The Knicks don’t have to run plays for Robinson, as he learns NBA offenses, but the alley-oops showcase his athleticism, and the length is on display in low-post defensive situations, including emphatic blocks.

There’s much for Robinson to develop, but his raw skill also leaves his value high. The Knicks don’t exactly know what they have in him, rather than a finished product who everyone knows what they’ll receive from game to game.

If the Knicks sign free agents this summer, Robinson can slot similarly. He’s a defensive force that receives occasional plays around the rim, but must bulk up to handle more below the rim work, including rebounding.

If Robinson takes another step forward, it only improves his stock as a leading piece to acquire the next available star after Davis. If he does, there’s little reason to move him, either, as an athletic, powerful force in the middle.