Jalen Brunson is going to miss Mitchell Robinson.
The three-time All-Star opened up about Robinson’s decision to leave the New York Knicks for the Boston Celtics in an interview with the New York Post’s Stefan Bondy.
“Obviously playing for a rival and I know people want every team to hate each other,” Brunson said. “But there are some people you really care for, and that’s my guy. I’m happy for him. And now, whenever we play him — four times a year — he’s not my friend that day.”
Brunson and Mitchell were teammates for four seasons. They achieved a lot of success together and reached the mountaintop in 2026, capturing New York’s first NBA championship in 53 years.
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The Celtics signed Robinson to a three-year, $47.4 million contract.
After signing the contract, Robinson indicated that he didn’t want to leave New York.
“I tried, brother,” Robinson responded to OG Anunoby on Instagram. “I didn’t want this to happen. Hopefully, the truth comes out at some point.”
Robinson won’t have to wait long to face Brunson and his former team — Boston’s second game of the 2026-27 season is against New York at TD Garden on Oct. 23 — but he won’t make his return to Madison Square Garden until March 14.
Robinson might play for a rival now, but it’s hard to imagine him not getting a warm welcome from the Knicks crowd.
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