Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks are preparing for their championship defense, with most of their core roster returning for the 2026 season.
However, one of the Knicks’ significant players from last season’s championship squad, big man Mitchell Robinson, is now on the Boston Celtics. Brunson spoke about what it’s been like losing such an important teammate, who was significant to the Knicks’ defense and interior presence, and also mentioned his new teammate, Andre Drummond.
“Definitely tough. That’s my guy,” Brunson told reporters on Monday. “It’s definitely difficult, but you love to see someone advance their generational wealth… just getting Andre, we’re excited. I think he can be a big key to this team.”
Brunson admitted he’s known the veteran center, Drummond, from afar, but will get to know him better now as his teammate.
In July, ESPN reported that Robinson signed a three-year, $47.4 million deal with the Celtics, joining Jayson Tatum and Paul George on a new-look roster. Last season, Robinson averaged 5.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, and 72.3% field-goal shooting.
Robinson averaged nearly 20 minutes per game on the court during the regular season. He was also a big part of the team’s championship run, appearing in 18 games.
The Knicks signed Drummond this offseason to a one-year, $3.9 million deal, hoping he can fill the void Robinson left. Drummond has played in the league for 14 seasons for various teams, including the Detroit Pistons, Brooklyn Nets, and Philadelphia 76ers.
Drummond’s career includes two All-Star Game selections, and he led the league in rebounding in four seasons. Last season with the 76ers, he averaged 6.4 points and 8.4 rebounds per game and appeared in Philly’s postseason run, which the Knicks ended in a 4-0 sweep in the second round.
The Knicks begin their championship defense with a huge opening night battle at Madison Square Garden. They’ll host LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, and the new-look 76ers on Tuesday, Oct. 20, with Drummond facing his former team.
Brunson and the Knicks will see their former teammate just days later when they visit Boston to face the Celtics on Friday, Oct. 23.