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3 Knicks players who should be untouchable in trade talks

By Desmond Novack

Jan 3, 2020; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; New York Knicks guard RJ Barrett (9) and center Mitchell Robinson (23) against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2020; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; New York Knicks guard RJ Barrett (9) and center Mitchell Robinson (23) against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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With the flurries of trade reports surrounding the New York Knicks becoming more and more prevalent each day, this question must be asked: Who is untouchable in trade talks? Honestly, this is a very tough question to answer because the answer could change depending on the trade market. However, I think there are three players on the Knicks who should be considered untouchable in most trade scenarios.

Obviously if a player like, say Luka Doncic were to become available (not saying he will), then anyone on the Knicks should be available in a potential trade package. However, in a deal like a Donovan Mitchell trade scenario, things are a little different, and there are players I would not throw into the deal.

Here are 3 Knicks players who should be considered untouchable in trade talks 

3. Mitchell Robinson

This is a little weird considering the amount of Mitchell Robinson trade reports that have been flying around over the last year or two. However, after signing his new four-year, $60 million contract this summer, I believe the Knicks front office should do all they can to ensure the 24-year-old rim protector remains with the team.

Obviously, there are upgrades over Robinson, as his inability to shoot the ball limits his offense somewhat. However, the value he brings defensively can only be matched by so many centers in the league.

In addition to all of this, Robinson’s fit and chemistry with the team are nearly irreplaceable. If New York wants to look for an upgrade at center, I would much rather see them move Robinson to the bench in order to find a better spacer at the five.

Could a potential Robinson trade happen this season? Absolutely, however, I don’t see the Knicks benefitting from it depending on what they’d get in return. The value Robinson brings on the defensive side of the ball is too much to risk trading away.

Regardless, due to the NBA’s rules on contracts, Robinson cannot be traded until Dec. 15, so even if the Knicks wanted to move on from him, they would have to wait.

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