Mitchell Robinson, would he be a good match with the Wizards?
With Isaiah Hartenstein getting close to unrestricted free agency, the New York Knicks have questions to answer this offseason about their center position. However, according to Ian Begley of SNY, there is a report that the Knicks are in talks with the Washington Wizards about a possible trade involving Mitchell Robinson.
It is therefore not shocking that Mitchell Robinson has been discussed in some of the Knicks’ trade talks with rival clubs (The Wizards are one of the teams with whom the Knicks have had discussions about Robinson). Begley notes, “I’m sure a number of other clubs have spoken with New York regarding Robinson, their starting center, who is 26 years old.
Begley notes that the Knicks would be surprised if Robinson were traded before or during the NBA Draft since they would probably want to know Isaiah Hartenstein’s final decision regarding his future. One team that is frequently mentioned as a potential contender for Hartenstein in free agency is the Oklahoma City Thunder. It is unclear if Hartenstein would accept the Knicks’ offer to go or if the Thunder would outbid them financially. Oklahoma City is able to provide more than New York because of its financial flexibility.
The fact that signing Hartenstein would probably need Chet Holmgren to take a slightly different role could act as a disincentive. If Hartenstein remains in New York, he will undoubtedly begin. Hartenstein further claims that if the Los Angeles Clippers had offered him a contract, he would have accepted it in order to stay with them before joining the Knicks because he enjoyed the environment there. However, they never made that offer. Therefore, it’s feasible that Hartenstein will take a pay cut in order to maintain his preferred status with the Knicks. Begley thinks Hartenstein will make a comeback.
Begley remarks, “One thing about Hartenstein: If he’s choosing between an offer from the Knicks and one that’s a little bit higher, I would still guess that Hartenstein returns to New York.” Due to Hartenstein’s Early Bird Rights, the Knicks are only able to give him a new contract worth about $16 million in the first year. It may last for up to four years and cost up to $72 million.
In the event that Hartenstein chooses to leave in free agency, the Knicks do have a fallback option.
If Isaiah Hartenstein departs, the Knicks are considering Goga Bitadze as a pivot alternative.
Begley reports that the Orlando Magic’s Goga Bitadze is being considered by the Knicks. He will also be eligible to sign as an unrestricted free agent. This is what could happen if Hartenstein exercises his right to free agency. If Hartenstein leaves, it will be intriguing to see if the Knicks can sign Bitadze.
It will be intriguing to observe the implications for Robinson’s trade opportunities. In any case, the Knicks’ next several weeks will be crucial. Next season, they would like to do things differently.
