An NBA analyst suggested that the Memphis Grizzlies and the New York Knicks deal this offseason.
The following trade proposal was put forth by Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley for the Knicks and Grizzlies:
The Trade: In exchange for Luke Kennard, the No. 9 pick, a 2026 second-round pick (via LAC), and a 2027 second-round pick (via ATL), the New York Knicks trade Mitchell Robinson to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Robinson’s foot issue limited his Knicks play this season to just 31 games. Averaging 5.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.1 blocks, and 40.9% free throws from the field, he shot 57.5% from the field. Next season, the 26-year-old will earn $14.3 million.
In his piece “Fresh Predictions from NBA Trade and Offseason Rumors,” Buckley stated, “If the Knicks pay anywhere near $72.5 million to keep Isaiah Hartenstein, that would be a crystal-clear indication of their intent to keep him in the starting lineup.” That would also be concerning for Robinson, whose $14.3 million salary may now be too much for a backup big man to handle.
“The Grizzlies, who have a void in their center rotation akin to that of Steven Adams and may be eager to resume their superior offensive glass-dominating ways, may find great comfort in that alarm.” Robinson has averaged 5.4 offensive rebounds per 36 minutes over his career and has grabbed an incredible 6.7 per 36 this season, so his health would almost certainly ensure that happens.
In seven games, the Knicks were defeated by the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the playoffs this year.
The Grizzlies, meanwhile, did not make the playoffs.
“Memphis should once again be putting constant downhill pressure on opposing defenses with Ja Morant back driving this attack,” wrote Buckley. “They expose themselves on the offensive glass when they give up on stopping his dribble penetrations. That’s how this offense results in a season like the one it had in 2021–22, when it finished fourth in efficiency while only ranking 24th in true shooting. That is what an incredible 33.8 offensive rebounding percentage, which leads the NBA, can accomplish.
“It would make sense to favor trade pieces that could eventually bring one back if the Knicks give up Robinson in a transaction that doesn’t provide a star. With the choices, this front management would have greater negotiating leverage, and Kennard might bring value with his expiring $14.8 million team option or his 43.9 career three-point percentage.
Kennard, one of the best shooters in the NBA, shot 44.8% overall, 45.0% from outside the arc, and 88.9% from the foul line this season. He also averaged 11.0 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. For 2024–2025, the lefty has a $14.8 million club option.
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