The Knicks' longest-tenured player could finally say his goodbye in New York
The New York Knicks could be heading into free agency without one of the longest-tenured players on their roster.
According to the New York Post's Stefan Bondy, it is "unlikely" that veteran center Mitchell Robinson will return to New York next season. Robinson is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and the Knicks are reportedly expected to move in a different direction as they navigate the NBA's increasingly restrictive salary cap rules.
"Heard it's unlikely Mitchell Robinson will be back with Knicks next season," Bondy posted on X.
"He's the longest-tenured Knick but also an unrestricted free agent. Owner James Dolan said he's unwilling to pay into second apron so running it back with bench is not feasible."
If Robinson departs, it would mark the end of an eight-year run with the franchise that drafted him with the No. 36 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft.
Mitchell Robinson (23) reacts to missing a free throw against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the third quarter of game one of the eastern conference finals during the 2026 NBA playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Robinson's Time in New York
Over the years, Robinson developed into one of the league's better defensive centers when healthy, providing elite rim protection, offensive rebounding and lob-finishing ability.
However, injuries have repeatedly interrupted his career, limiting his availability and making long-term roster planning more difficult for New York.
The timing of Robinson's potential departure also reflects the financial realities facing contenders under the NBA's new collective bargaining agreement.
Mitchell Robinson (23) and Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) celebrate after the final buzzer against the San Antonio Spurs in game four of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden. The Second Apron
Teams that exceed the second apron face severe roster-building restrictions, limiting their ability to use exceptions, aggregate salaries in trades and maintain expensive supporting casts.
Bondy noted that Knicks owner James Dolan is unwilling to push payroll into that territory, making it difficult to retain the current roster.
Robinson's exit would create another hole in the Knicks' frontcourt after the organization invested heavily in building a championship contender around Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
Mitchell Robinson (23) reacts after scoring during the first half against the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden.Although New York reached new heights this past season, the club now appears poised to make difficult financial decisions in an effort to remain competitive while staying below the league's most punitive tax threshold.
At 28 years old, Robinson should draw interest on the open market despite his injury history. His ability to protect the rim, finish around the basket and impact games defensively makes him an attractive option for teams searching for size in free agency.
With free agency set to open soon, Robinson's future will be one of the more intriguing situations to monitor as teams around the league look to strengthen their frontcourts.
