Head coach Mike Budenholzer of the Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns are not expected to target New York Knicks big man Mitchell Robinson in a trade, according to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro. Despite speculation that Robinson might be available, Gambadoro shut down the possibility, citing Robinson’s injury history and the difficult trade logistics.
“I have seen some comments on Mitchell Robinson being available and if the Suns would have interest. I will say no to this one — Always injured and would have to trade Grayson [Allen] or Nurk [Jusuf Nurkic] to get him. Not an option,” Gambadoro posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
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Robinson, a second-round pick by the Knicks in 2018, has shown flashes of his defensive prowess and rebounding ability throughout his six-year career. However, his durability has always been a concern. The 25-year-old center has never played more than 72 games in a season and recently underwent ankle surgery, which will cause him to miss the beginning of the 2024-25 NBA season.
With the Suns gearing up for a high-expectation season featuring a star-studded lineup of Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Devin Booker, adding a player like Robinson would come at a steep cost. Trading for him would likely require parting with either newly acquired center Jusuf Nurkic or veteran guard Grayson Allen—something the Suns are hesitant to do.
Phoenix’s focus is on maximizing their current roster under first-year head coach Mike Budenholzer. Budenholzer has expressed confidence in point guard Tyus Jones, who was brought in to solidify the team’s offense and provide leadership on the floor.
“Certainly we feel like Tyus has established himself as a great starting point guard in our league, and he will be our starter,” Budenholzer said. “When you put him out there with Kevin, Brad, Book, and Nurk, we feel like we’ve got a strong starting five—and a really strong bench behind them.”
With Phoenix set on their core players and lineup, it seems unlikely that they’ll take a chance on Robinson, especially with his injury history and the cost of acquiring him. For now, the Suns appear content with the roster they’ve assembled as they aim for a deep playoff run in the upcoming season.
