NBA Market: Mitchell Robinson leaves the Knicks for the Celtics

The Boston Celtics continue to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season. The franchise has reached an agreement with center Mitchell Robinson, who signs a three-year, $47.4 million contract, with a player option for the third season. Something like this was expected in the NBA market.

Robinson arrives in Boston after winning the NBA championship with the New York Knicks, ending an eight-season stint with the New York franchise, where he had become the player with the most time on the team.

Drafted by the Knicks in 2018, the center was one of the cornerstones of the rotation during the historic season that brought the title back to New York for the first time in 53 years. Alongside Miles McBride, he was one of only two key players from the championship roster who had been originally selected by the organization.

During his time with the Knicks, Robinson played eight seasons, averaging 7.5 points and 8 rebounds in nearly 24 minutes per game, establishing himself as one of the league's strongest interior defenders and shot blockers.

Last season, he also left behind some of the physical issues that had marked his career. His 60 games played represented his highest participation since the 2022-23 season, following several seasons plagued by injuries.

His impact was particularly noticeable on the offensive boards. Averaging 4.2 rebounds per game in that category, Robinson was the second-best player in the entire NBA, playing a crucial role in the Knicks' journey to the championship.

Mitchell's Impact in the NBA Finals

He also contributed quality minutes in the playoffs despite physical limitations. The center averaged 4.8 points and 5.5 rebounds in 13.9 minutes per game, returning to the court after recovering from a fractured pinky finger on his right hand suffered between the Eastern Conference Finals and the NBA Finals.

With his addition, Boston adds experience, size, and intimidation in the paint to a roster that continues to aggressively maneuver in the market to compete for the championship again.