The surging New York Knicks have won five straight games, and a recent report suggests they could be willing to part with a noteworthy player ahead of the February trade deadline.
According to James Edwards III of The Athletic, New York is open to trading center Mitchell Robinson. The news comes during one of the Knicks' hottest stretches of the season and amidst a great deal of speculation regarding what their deadline strategy might entail.
"League sources told The Athletic that they are under the impression that the Knicks are open to moving the oft-injured Robinson, who will make $14.3 million this season and $12.9 million next season, Edwards III wrote.
"The big man, who has been a defensive anchor for New York for several seasons, underwent foot surgery in May and has yet to play in a game this season. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau said this week that Robinson is not practicing with the team and just began running and jumping."
NBA Rumors: Surprise Knicks trade intel opens the door for Mitchell Robinson.
When healthy, Robinson is a force to be reckoned with. Across 31 games last season, the Florida native averaged 5.6 points and 8.5 rebounds. A year prior, he competed in 59 contests and averaged 7.4 points and 9.4 boards.
His immediate availability is questionable and is likely a huge part of why New York may be willing to part with him. Presently the Knicks' frontcourt consists of Karl-Anthony Towns, Precious Achiuwa, and Jericho Sims. Towns has been an elite addition in his first year as a Knick, but Achiuwa and Sims have both struggled to provide consistency.
Many believe it may be still be an evaluation year for the Knicks. But, they would certainly benefit from more depth, especially if they have designs on competing with the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers this spring.
Some have suggested that New York would be open to trading for a center like Jonas Valanciunas, but it could also be argued they'd benefit more from a wing such as Javonte Green. The Knicks are dead last in terms of bench points per game and could utilize a solid three-point shooter like Green. Through 43 games this year, the 31-year-old is shooting roughly 38% from distance.
The Knicks are positioned to make a deep run in the NBA Playoffs, but it is worth wondering if they could even receive a solid return for Robinson. Teams may not be willing to bank on his health in the same way that New York may not be bullish on his short-term availability.
Trading a "currently" unproven Robinson may signal that New York fully believes that "this" particular team can win a title and is only a player or two away from running the Eastern Conference.
In any event, Robinson's fate may ultimately hinge on his health. It is clear that he would be an impactful presence if he is able to compete. But the Knicks will have to decide whether or not they are willing to gamble on this year's team.