Knicks need to re-sign Mitchell Robinson instead of losing him in free agency
By James Nolan
Mitchell Robinson, the 24-year-old center of the New York Knicks, has been a wrecking force in the paint since being selected in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft. Letting him walk away in free agency would be a foolish decision for Leon Rose and the front office.
Robinson has gotten better in each season and has shown fans what he is capable of numerous times. If he improves over the offseason yet again, the 7-footer could become one of the NBA’s best big men.
If the Knicks are serious about winning, they’re going to need a great big man. It makes perfect sense to lock up the one that has been a huge part of this team for the past four seasons.
Mitchell Robinson was a force on both ends of the floor for the Knicks
This past season, Robinson only missed ten total games. If he can continue to stay healthy consistently, he can easily be a force on both ends of the floor for the Knicks. He was able to finish the season with a 76.1 FG%, along with other great numbers. His per 36 minute numbers in the 2021-2022 season were:
- 11.9 points per game
- 12.0 rebounds per game
- 5.7 offensive rebounds per game
- 2.6 blocks per game
Robinson’s ability on the offensive end is truly undervalued. He was able to create second-chance opportunities for New York on numerous occasions. Not only is he able to snag boards, but he can also throw it down. Robinson is one of the biggest lob threats in the game.
Mitchell Robinson (16 PTS) put on his own personal dunk contest in the first half 😱#NewYorkForever pic.twitter.com/LrCnB4KqI6
— NBA TV (@NBATV) January 2, 2020
New York should certainly do everything that it can to secure the big man to a long-term extension. At 24, he has time to continue to get better.
Robinson is already a great player, but he has always been known for working extra hard. This offseason in particular, it seems as if he is working on the weak part of his games.
As great of a finisher and defender as Robinson is, his jump shot and free throw shooting could use a major improvement. If the Knicks can unlock his full potential, they could have a serious threat on their roster for years to come.
Robinson would be a game-changer for any team. He is one of the most athletically gifted centers in the NBA and he has barely even scratched the surface of his full potential. Hopefully Rose and New York can retain Mitchell Robinson in free agency.
