SouthernWorldwide.com – The New York Knicks’ first championship team in 53 years is undergoing significant changes. While Jose Alvarado remains with the team, the first major departure is defensive big man Mitchell Robinson, who has signed a three-year deal with the Boston Celtics.
Several of Robinson’s former teammates, including Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and OG Anunoby, offered their thoughts on his farewell post on Instagram. However, Robinson’s response to Anunoby was particularly revealing.
Anunoby expressed his sadness with a sad emoji, to which Robinson replied that he “tried” to stay with the Knicks, suggesting that the desire to keep him was not mutual.
“I tried brother I didn’t want this to happen hopefully the truth comes out at some point. I’m gonna miss you big dawg! Keep being great,” Robinson responded to Anunoby.
Team owner James Dolan had previously stated his disinterest in approaching the NBA’s second apron of payroll, describing it as “suicidal” shortly after the Knicks secured the title.
This statement alone signaled to fans that a roster overhaul was on the horizon. This was particularly evident given that Jalen Brunson was expected to seek a significant pay raise after taking a substantial cut to help the Knicks win the championship.
Mitchell Robinson was instrumental in the Knicks’ championship victory, securing the final offensive rebound off a missed free throw that effectively sealed their win against the San Antonio Spurs last month.
Robinson experienced both the highs and lows with the Knicks since being drafted as a second-round pick in 2018. His rookie season saw the team finish with a disappointing 17-65 record.
Now, he transitions to a Boston Celtics team that appears to be in the process of retooling, carrying the status of a champion.
