Knicks Players Express Surprise and Disappointment Over Mitchell Robinson's Departure
Teammates recount their shock at losing a key player in free agency, citing salary cap constraints.
Several New York Knicks players admitted to being blindsided by the departure of center Mitchell Robinson in free agency. Robinson signed a three-year, $47.4 million contract with the rival Boston Celtics, a move that many outside the organization had anticipated but apparently not those within the team.
"That hurt," said Karl-Anthony Towns during the team's Media Day. "I was very surprised. I think all of us were, so it was a surprise to everybody. I thought something would get done there."
Robinson was a significant contributor to the Knicks' championship-winning team. His exit is attributed to the team's need to stay under the NBA's second salary apron, a directive from owner James Dolan aimed at avoiding financial penalties. This constraint reportedly prevented the Knicks from making a competitive offer to Robinson.
Josh Hart described himself as "heartbroken" by the decision. "He was drafted here, gave his heart to the city," Hart said. "That's why people haven't repeated [as champions] for the last eight years because of that second apron and that CBA. Obviously, extremely gutted when he left, but I wish him well all but the four times that we play them. But I got love for him. He helped us win a championship, and he should always be loved and shown love in the city and in the arena."
In response to Robinson's departure, the Knicks signed Andre Drummond to a one-year veteran minimum contract to serve as the backup center behind Towns.
"Definitely tough," said Jalen Brunson of Robinson's exit. "That's my guy, and it just -- I think, no matter what, I feel I'm happy for him. Obviously, it's another opportunity. He got paid, as well. It's definitely difficult, but you love to see someone advance their generational wealth, so it's cool to see from that aspect. And just getting Andre, we're excited. I think he could be a big key to this team."
In other team news, Brunson has not yet reviewed his recent "Saturday Night Live" appearances. When asked about it, Hart quipped, "I don't think he has a future in acting."
Towns also shared an anecdote about his offseason honeymoon in Africa, where he encountered Knicks fans in Tanzania. "We'd be out in the Serengeti, and there were people in the open cars, in the wild going, 'Knicks in five!' That's pretty crazy, actually."
