Knicks News: $30 Million Dilemma Could Force James Dolan to Trade Mitchell Robinson, Wizards’ Kyle Kuzma Emerges as Top Option

The New York Knicks may have solved their center problem. In the previous edition, the team had to juggle between two backup centers following Julius Randle’s shoulder injury. Although Mitchell Robinson was the primary backup, he was unable to perform at his best due to his ankle injury. Ultimately, it left the NY side to rely on Isaiah Hartenstein, the second backup. As the team enters the 2024 offseason, the team has found themselves in a dilemma about trading Robinson when the Kyle Kuzma trade scenario surfaced.

Ian Begley from SNY TV reported that the Knicks and Washington Wizards have a “potential” Mitchell Robinson trade. And Kyle Kuzma could emerge as the best option to replace the big man in the Knicks fold.

One of the main reasons for the dilemma could be the emergence of Isaiah Hartebstein this past season. The Knicks signed him to a two-year contract worth $16 million. While he barely got a chance to prove himself in his first season with New York, he had plenty in the second. The team relied on him because both Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson (ankle) were injured. And he delivered a promising performance, averaging 7.8 points and 8.3 rebounds.

Moreover, he also impressed the team with his IQ and performance in the postseason. Importantly, the 26-year-old entered unrestricted free agency this offseason, leaving him no choice but to appreciate his value. On the other hand, Robinson, with a four-year, $60 million contract, has two years left in the tank. The Knicks still owe Robinson $30 million and at the same time, they can also find a perfect replacement by matching the salary.

In practice, it might be impossible to match Kyle Kuzma’s salary. The Wizards forward has three years left on his contract with an annual salary of $22 million. Maybe the Knicks can risk cap space to sign him.

The Knicks have a forward problem with Kyle Kuzma

Last season, the Knicks found a temporary solution to the center problem. Prior to the trade deadline, the team acquired OG Anunoby from the Toronto Raptors. The 26-year-old, in the prime of his career, delivered his best performance in the latter part of the season. And according to reports, there’s a good chance the Knicks will retain him on a long-term deal.

Moreover, the star, who received an annual salary of $18 million, can increase his salary to $30-$35 million in the upcoming contract. Thanks to his elite defensive abilities and postseason performance.

Although the Knicks have had to nearly double their salary for Anunoby, they have no choice but to let go of one of their backup centers. Considering the rise of Isaiah Hartenstein in the previous season, the Big apple The side will most likely let go of Mitchell Robinson. Nevertheless, despite the short attack, the team looked deadly. Following the return of Julius Randle, Jalen Brunson will have more options to make his case for a championship run. Will the Knicks win the title next year? Let us know in the comments below.

Before you go, don’t forget to check in with Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, to talk about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud. Keep checking this space for more such updates.