Jalen Brunson Reacts to Mitchell Robinson Signing Celtics Contract After Knicks' NBA Championship

The New York Knicks lost a key piece from their 2026 championship roster when veteran center Mitchell Robinson signed with the rival Boston Celtics in free agency.

While speaking to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post , Knicks star point guard Jalen Brunson addressed losing Robinson for the first time and admitted that it was "very tough" to see him walk this summer.

"Obviously playing for a rival and I know people want every team to hate each other. But there are some people you really care for and that's my guy," Brunson told Bondy. "I'm happy for him. And now, whenever we play him—four times a year—he's not my friend that day."

Robinson was the longest-tenured member of the Knicks roster last season, and his loyalty paid off as they won their first NBA championship since 1973. The big man's rebounding and interior defense helped New York dominate its opponents throughout the postseason.

The Knicks found a replacement for Robinson by signing veteran center Andre Drummond, so Brunson will have to get used to his new rim protector as the team tries to defend its title during the upcoming season.