Knicks Predicted to Cut Ties With $90 Million Star in Surprise Move
New York, July 8, 2025 – In a development that has shaken the NBA landscape, speculation is mounting that the New York Knicks may be preparing to sever ties with a key $90 million player, signaling an unexpected pivot in their rebuilding strategy.
The Rumor Mill Heats Up
Sporting News first flagged the chatter, highlighting that the Knicks could contemplate trading either Precious Achiuwa or Mitchell Robinson, both signed to hefty contracts, to address their glaring frontcourt depth issues . Fans and experts alike have dubbed this move a bold bid to free up cap space and reallocate resources more strategically.
Why Now?
Despite boasting a potent starting five—with Jalen Brunson and Karl‑Anthony Towns at the helm—the Knicks have struggled when it comes to dependable bench production. Yahoo Sports’ Morten Stig Jensen observed that role players like Achiuwa and Robinson have neither delivered consistent offense nor maintained reliable health . Meanwhile, the team remains $600 k under the second salary cap apron—just enough to pursue a mid-tier free agent or absorb a trade exception.
Possible Trade Destinations
Chicago is one team in the mix. The Knicks could swap Achiuwa and Robinson for veteran Nikola Vucevic, who offers scoring and interior stability . Sportskeeda has also suggested that New York might opt to deal Robinson for a more durable center like Jonas Valančiūnas, who commands a modest $9.9 million salary nypost.com+15sportskeeda.com+15sportingnews.com+15.
Costs and Benefits Balanced
While the proposed moves might bolster bench strength and offer more dependable minutes, fans remain wary. Robinson, in particular, has been lauded as “a genuine asset as an impactful defender, rebounder and rim‑runner” despite his injury history Critics argue trading him could weaken the defensive backbone that helped the Knicks reach the Eastern Conference Finals.
Front Office Logic
New York’s president, Leon Rose, has emphasized the importance of flexibility. With just enough cap room to maneuver, he’s reportedly favoring dynamic, plug-and-play upgrades over long-term, injury-prone investments.This aligns with the broader strategy of keeping the current core intact while improving depth around them.
What This Means Assuming It Happens
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Deeper frontcourt: Ensuring stable centers or forwards from outside, reducing the pressure on TownCap space unlocked: Could free up mid‑level or second‑round exceptions for bench diversification.
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Signal of intent: Suggests the Knicks believe the current core is title‑contender ready—if better supported.
Next Steps
Decision-makers are reportedly conducting internal reviews and gauging interest around the league. A finalized deal could materialize before the preseason, tax lines and roster cuts being top of the priority list.
The Bottom Line
If the Knicks indeed move on from either Achiuwa or Robinson, it would mark a bold strategy shift: sacrificing familiarity for flexibility, depth, and potential. As the NBA offseason accelerates, all eyes will be on Madison Square Garden—where calculated risks may define New York’s title h
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