BREAKING: Knicks Set To Trade Mitchell Robinson To Wizards For Former No. 15 Overall Pick. As HC Thibodeau Clinches Trade Deal For Knicks Center Position Giving Jericho Sims Exit Door.

In a major roster shake-up ahead of the NBA trade deadline, the New York Knicks are finalizing a deal to send center Mitchell Robinson to the Washington Wizards in exchange for a former No. 15 overall pick.

The move comes as Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau pushes for a more stable and reliable frontcourt, signaling a significant shift in the team’s center rotation.

Robinson, a dominant shot-blocker and defensive anchor, has been a key piece of the Knicks’ success when healthy. However, injuries have plagued the 7-footer throughout his career, limiting his availability in crucial moments.

The Knicks, currently in the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff race, appear to be prioritizing durability and offensive versatility at the center position.

The exact identity of the former No. 15 overall pick heading to New York has yet to be confirmed, but speculation suggests it could be a young big man with upside—potentially Daniel Gafford or another Wizards frontcourt piece.

Gafford, drafted 15th overall in 2019, has developed into a solid rim protector and lob threat, fitting well into Thibodeau’s defensive-minded system.

With Robinson on the way out, this trade also impacts Jericho Sims, who had been viewed as a developing backup center for New York.

The addition of a new frontcourt player likely pushes Sims further down the depth chart or potentially out of the rotation entirely. The Knicks could explore additional trades to move Sims or adjust their roster before the deadline.

For Washington, acquiring Robinson signals a commitment to strengthening their interior defense. The Wizards, currently rebuilding, could see Robinson as a foundational piece alongside their young core, assuming he can stay healthy.

As the trade nears completion, Knicks fans will be eager to see how this move impacts their playoff push. With Thibodeau at the helm, the Knicks are clearly focused on constructing a roster built for both immediate contention and long-term stability.