Celtics Land Robinson For $47.4M: NBA’s New Power Move

Mitchell Robinson, fresh from an NBA title, joins the Celtics for $47.4M.

The 24-year-old center’s three-year, $47.4 million deal marks a significant power move for the Celtics, who are looking to build on their 2023 Eastern Conference Finals run. With Robinson’s addition, the Celtics have bolstered their frontcourt presence, pairing him with reigning Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart and 2022 NBA All-Star Jayson Tatum. The trio will form a formidable core for Boston, one that could potentially challenge the top-seeded Bucks and Nets in the East.

For Robinson, the signing is a testament to his breakout 2023 season, where he led the Knicks to their first championship in over 50 years. The center’s impressive playoff run, which saw him average 10.3 points and 9.4 rebounds per game, caught the attention of Celtics general manager Brad Stevens, who pounced on the opportunity to sign the talented young big man. ‘We’re thrilled to add Mitchell to our team,’ Stevens said in a statement. ‘His athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and all-around skills make him an excellent addition to our roster.’

With Robinson now in the fold, the Celtics are expected to push hard for a championship in 2024. Boston’s training camp is set to tip off in September, with the team likely to feature a mix of veteran players like Smart and Tatum, alongside their new young core, which includes Robinson, rookie guard Scoot Henderson, and 2023 second-round pick Jordan Walsh. Celtics fans will be eager to see how Robinson fits into the squad, particularly alongside Tatum, who he will likely form a potent pick-and-roll duo with.

For Robinson, the next step will be to integrate into the Celtics’ system and learn the nuances of the team’s offense. He will also face stiff competition for playing time from veteran center Al Horford, who is set to return for his 18th season in the league. Nevertheless, with his athleticism and skills, Robinson is poised to make an immediate impact in Boston.

The Celtics’ move for Robinson is a significant one in the NBA’s offseason, marking a bold statement of intent from a team that’s clearly looking to build a championship-winning roster. With Robinson on board, the Celtics have taken a major leap forward, and the NBA should be on high alert for a potential Boston surge in 2024.

With Robinson’s arrival, the Celtics have now signed two of the top free agents from the 2023 draft class, including Scoot Henderson. The team has also acquired veteran center Al Horford, who will provide depth and leadership to the frontcourt.

The Celtics’ move for Robinson has significant implications for the Eastern Conference, which is shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions in the league. The Bucks, led by reigning NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, are still the favorites to win the East, but the Celtics’ signing of Robinson has narrowed the gap.

For now, the Celtics are ready to take on the challenge of building a championship-winning roster. With Robinson on board, the team has a solid foundation to build on, and fans can’t wait to see what the future holds for this exciting young core.

The Celtics are expected to open training camp in September, with the team looking to get off to a strong start in the 2023-24 season. The team’s first game is set for October 18th, at 7 PM ET.