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3 draft prospects that could replace Mitchell Robinson if he leaves Knicks

By Jake Brown

MIAMI, FLORIDA - JANUARY 26: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat goes up against Mitchell Robinson #23 of the New York Knicks in the second half at FTX Arena on January 26, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - JANUARY 26: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat goes up against Mitchell Robinson #23 of the New York Knicks in the second half at FTX Arena on January 26, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images) /
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With Mitchell Robinson set to hit free agency this summer, the New York Knicks have some work to do, especially at the center position should Robinson leave.

And while it may be easier to fill that hole through free agency, the Knicks should look to the draft, using their lottery pick on a big to further solidify the frontcourt.

Should the Knicks target a draft prospect if Mitchell Robinson leaves?

The 2022 NBA Draft lottery took place last week, with the NBA’s Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum announcing that New York will pick No. 11 in this year’s draft.

Recent No. 11 picks include Ziaire Williams, Devin Vassell, Cam Johnson, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Domantas Sabonis, proving that the 11th pick isn’t so bad after all.

The Knicks won’t be able to draft players like Chet Holmgren, Paolo Banchero, or Jabari Smith, but there are plenty of solid big men that New York will be able to capitalize on at No. 11.

If he should walk before the draft, Robinson’s lankiness and athleticism will be missed, and the Knicks will need to bounce back in the draft to fill that void.

It will be important to find a replacement for Robinson, as he has been an important piece for New York, throwing down lobs and protecting the rim on the other end.

And while the Knicks do still have last year’s second-round pick Jericho Sims and they also re-signed Nerlens Noel to a deal last summer, Robinson’s presence fared much better manning the middle this past season.

New York should look to find similar qualities in a big man when drafting while also looking to find a more polished player on the offensive end.

If the Knicks are targeting a replacement for Robinson, here are three prospects that they should be looking at when draft day comes around

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