Overview
- Mitchell Robinson signed a three-year, $47.4 million contract with the Boston Celtics, a move reported across outlets on Monday that removes the longest-tenured player from New York’s 2026 title rotation.
- Knicks star Jalen Brunson called Robinson’s exit “very tough” and said he is happy for his former teammate while warning that their friendship will be paused when the teams meet during the regular season.
- Boston officials, including president Brad Stevens and coach Joe Mazzulla, praised Robinson’s rebounding, rim protection and championship experience and said he will add schematic flexibility to their frontcourt.
- New York responded by signing veteran center Andre Drummond as a lower-cost stopgap for offensive rebounding and rim work, a move that does not fully replicate Robinson’s mobility and offensive-glass impact.
- Reporters say financial constraints tied to avoiding the NBA’s luxury-tax thresholds under owner James Dolan were a major factor in Robinson’s departure, a decision that could shape future contract choices and the Knicks’ title defense this season.