New Mitchell Robinson Rumors on Lakers, Bulls, More Teams amid Knicks' Free-Agency Contract Decision

Having played a key role off the bench for the New York Knicks throughout this season, particularly during their run to the NBA Finals, Mitchell Robinson could be on the verge of cashing in with a big free-agent contract this summer.

Per NBA insider Jake Fischer, Robinson is "expected to draw significant free agent interest" with center-needy teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, Charlotte Hornets and Toronto Raptors cited as potential suitors.

Despite entering the Finals with a fractured finger that required surgery after the Knicks swept the Cleveland Cavaliers, Robinson has remained a regular part of their rotation through the first two games against the San Antonio Spurs.

Head coach Mike Brown was effusive with praise for the job Robinson did in Game 2, particularly his defense on Victor Wembanyama on the final possession when the Spurs had a chance to win.

The clear comparison point in terms of free-agent value than Fischer mentioned was Isaiah Hartenstein, who left the Knicks two years ago to sign with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Hartenstein got a three-year, $87 million deal from Oklahoma City in July 2024. Robinson is in the final season of a four-year, $60 million contract. His offensive rebounding prowess figures to make him extremely attractive to teams. He has averaged more than 4.0 offensive boards per game in four of the last five seasons.

The Lakers would be an ideal fit because of the ability to catch lobs from Luka Dončić. Their offseason plans will depend a lot on what LeBron James wants to do, but they can't really afford to wait on him to decide if he takes his time because they need to build a roster around Dončić and Austin Reaves.

Charlotte would be a fun landing spot for Robinson after the team took a step forward in 2025-26 with LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller looking like a formidable young trio.

Chicago needs as much talent as it can get right now, though the franchise first needs to find a new head coach before thinking about free agents. Toronto needs an upgrade at center because Jakob Poeltl was borderline unplayable in the first-round playoff series against the Cavs.

All of this is good news for Robinson as he looks to cash in with a lucrative contract. It could cap off a big summer for him if the Knicks are able to finish off the Spurs to win the NBA championship.