Mitchell Robinson, the New York Knicks‘ longest-tenured player, has become a hot topic as trade rumors swirl around the team. Despite not playing this season due to ankle issues, Robinson remains central to discussions about the Knicks’ roster construction and postseason aspirations. Another Knick that keeps coming up in trade discussions around the league is Jericho Sims. According to Brett Seigel of ClutchPoints, the Knicks are looking to flip Robinson and Sims for an impact player.
Knicks Predicted To Flip $65.6M Duo, Robinson and Sims For An Impact Player
Some fans see Robinson as the solution to the Knicks’ inconsistent defense, while others view him as the team’s most valuable trade asset. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Robinson could play a crucial role in shaping the Knicks’ fortunes at the trade deadline. Marks noted,
“If Robinson can return before the trade deadline, New York will be faced with the question of whether he has more value playing with the current roster or in a trade to bolster New York’s bench. The Knicks’ reserves average the fewest minutes and points of any team.”
Knicks’ Shallow Rotation Raises Concerns
The Knicks has a rotation of about nine players (only nine average double-digit minutes per game), leaving them vulnerable to injuries or fatigue. Their bench averages the fewest points per game in the NBA. Head coach Tom Thibodeau’s tendency to play his starters heavy minutes adds to the risk. The team’s lack of depth at both the wing and backup center positions is particularly troubling.
Robinson’s $14.31 million cap hit for 2024-25, along with Sims’ $2.09 million, makes them attractive trade pieces. Sims has drawn interest in trade talks, as noted by Siegel,
“New York wouldn’t be opposed to flipping Mitchell Robinson in a package for an impactful sixth-man-like player. Jericho Sims has also seen interest in trade conversations around the league.”
The Knicks could include heavily protected draft picks from the Wizards and Pistons in a deal to address their depth concerns. However, the team faces financial restrictions due to the second apron, limiting their ability to aggregate contracts or replace players lost in a trade.
Robinson’s Value as a Traditional Center
Robinson remains one of the league’s few traditional centers, excelling at protecting the rim, grabbing rebounds, and finishing close to the basket. His contributions make him a vital part of the Knicks’ defense and a desirable asset for other teams.
Despite his strengths, Robinson’s trade value has surged because of the Knicks’ depleted draft pick reserves following offseason deals for Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns. Moving Robinson could allow the Knicks to acquire a player who fits their postseason aspirations while also bolstering their depth.
Robinson’s return to the court, however, may take time. ESPN insider Shams Charania recently reported that Robinson might not play until February, complicating his potential trade value.
Jericho Sims: The Underrated Asset
Sims, though less prominent than Robinson, has drawn interest in trade discussions. Sims provides energy and defense at a low cost, making him an appealing piece for teams looking for budget-friendly options. His $2.09 million cap hit offers flexibility in trades, especially for teams needing depth at center.
Sims’ inclusion in a trade could help the Knicks acquire a player who improves their bench while preserving financial flexibility. The combination of Sims and Robinson in trade talks reflects the Knicks’ need to make strategic moves to stay competitive.
Balancing Depth and Postseason Aspirations
The Knicks face a delicate balancing act as they approach the trade deadline. Improving depth without sacrificing talent or future flexibility will require careful planning. The Knicks must weigh their lack of depth and postseason goals.
The team’s financial restrictions and reliance on a shallow rotation make every trade decision critical. Moving Robinson and Sims could provide the Knicks with the impact player they need to solidify their postseason chances.
The Knicks Could Flip Robinson and Sims for Impact Player.
The Knicks are at a crossroads, with Robinson and Sims representing key trade assets which they can flip to bolster the team’s depth. Their potential departure could reshape the roster and address the team’s depth concerns. However, the Knicks must navigate financial limitations and ensure any moves align with their championship aspirations.
As trade rumors intensify, the fate of Robinson and Sims will likely define the Knicks’ season. Whether the team moves its $65.6 million center duo for an impact player remains to be seen, but the stakes couldn’t be higher.
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