The New York Knicks have agreed to a one-year, $3.6 million contract with veteran center Andre Drummond, a move that follows the departure of beloved defensive player Mitchell Robinson. The deal, reported by ESPN, cannot be finalized until Monday at noon. Drummond, a former All-Star and four-time NBA rebounding leader, returns to the New York area where he was born.
This acquisition comes as several Knicks starters, including Karl-Anthony Towns, Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Josh Hart, are reportedly expected to attend the wedding of pop star Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce at Madison Square Garden. Swift herself was a spectator at the Knicks' NBA Finals victory over the San Antonio Spurs on their home court just weeks prior.
Robinson's exit marks a significant change for the Knicks. He agreed to a three-year, $47.4 million deal with the Boston Celtics. Online, Robinson expressed that he did not want to leave New York, responding to a comment from former teammate OG Anunoby with "I tried brother I didn't want this to happen." This sentiment led some fans to criticize Knicks owner James Dolan, with one Instagram comment stating, "Dolan is such a cheapskate."
Dolan, who is transitioning control of Madison Square Garden and its associated sports teams to his son, previously stated the team's intention to stay below the NBA's second apron for luxury tax purposes. "We cannot go into the second apron," Dolan said on WFAN radio, indicating a payroll limit of $222 million for the upcoming season. Exceeding this threshold incurs significant financial penalties and limits the team's flexibility in trades and free agency.
While Robinson is recognized for his defensive prowess, some fans pointed to his offensive limitations, particularly his free-throw shooting, as a reason for the team's decision not to overpay for his contract. Brunson, the team's captain, reportedly turned down millions to remain with the Knicks, a decision credited by some fans for helping the team secure its first NBA championship in 53 years.
Drummond's arrival provides depth at center without impacting the Knicks' payroll concerns. He joins a Celtics team that is also reportedly re-signing center Neemias Queta and has acquired Paul George in a trade, though they have lost NBA Finals MVP Jaylen Brown in that deal.