Knicks eye centers to replace Mitchell Robinson amid free agency uncertainty
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 10:16 PM
Last updated Jun 28, 2026
The New York Knicks are exploring options to replace center Mitchell Robinson, who is not expected to return due to financial constraints. Owner James Dolan aims to keep the team payroll below the NBA's second apron, limiting their ability to retain Robinson against offers from teams like the Los Angeles Lakers. League sources suggest Nick Richards and Kevon Looney as potential low-cost replacements. Richards, an unrestricted free agent, had a stronger showing last season, while Looney brings championship experience but limited recent playtime. The Knicks face pressure to maintain their championship lineup within salary cap limits.
- •Mitchell Robinson helped Knicks win their first championship in 53 years.
- •Financial realities may prevent Robinson's return to the Knicks.
- •Nick Richards averaged 9.3 points and 7.6 rebounds after joining Chicago.
- •Kevon Looney averaged 2.8 points and 5.6 rebounds with New Orleans.
- •Knicks explore both free agency and trade options for a center.
- 7:13 PMYahoo Sports — Knicks insider names NBA champion center as potential Mitchell Robinson replacement
- 10:16 PMYahoo Sports — Two Centers Emerge as Potential Mitchell Robinson Replacements for Knicks
"The defending champions are eyeing two bigs as low-cost options at center if Robinson leaves in free agency.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 30, 2026, 7:13 PMKnicks insider names NBA champion center as potential Mitchell Robinson replacement
The Knicks will need a backup five.
- Yahoo SportsJun 28, 2026, 10:16 PMTwo Centers Emerge as Potential Mitchell Robinson Replacements for Knicks
The defending champions are eyeing two bigs as low-cost options at center if Robinson leaves in free agency.
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