The New York Knicks Fill the Void Left by Mitchell Robinson with a Bargain Deal
The New York Knicks were left reeling after losing Mitchell Robinson to the Boston Celtics, but they have now addressed the need for a backup center with the signing of free agent Andre Drummond to a one-year, $3.9 million deal, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Drummond, who spent the last two seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, brings a wealth of experience to the table, having played 15 seasons in the league. According to SNY’s Ian Begley, the Knicks were drawn to Drummond’s veteran presence and his impressive rebounding skills, which will help fill the void left by Robinson, one of the best offensive rebounders in NBA history.
Drummond’s Rebounding Prowess
Drummond is an all-time rebounder, with a career 25% rebound rate that stands as the best ever. Last season, he played 62 games for the 76ers and averaged a 20.2% rebound rate, which was the second-best in the league. In comparison, Robinson had a 21.4% rebound rate, making them two of the most prolific rebounders in the league.
However, Drummond’s shooting percentage stands at 47.2%, compared to Robinson’s 72.3%. This disparity is largely due to Robinson’s limited shooting range, as he mostly focuses on point-blank finishes. Drummond, on the other hand, is more of an active offensive participant, often taking and making corner 3s, as seen in the playoffs.
Drummond’s free-throw shooting is also a significant advantage, with a 63.1% clip that is significantly higher than Robinson’s 40% in the regular season and 29% in the playoffs. This difference is substantial, as Drummond made 70% of his free throws in the playoffs, making him a more formidable opponent on the court.
While Robinson is undoubtedly a better defender, the Knicks’ decision to sign Drummond can be seen as a savvy move. By doing so, they have addressed their need for a backup center without breaking the bank, avoiding the $44 million they would have had to spend to stay under the second apron. This bargain deal is a significant coup for the Knicks, who can now focus on building their roster without incurring significant financial losses.
