NBA Trade Rumors: New York Knicks set sights on 6-foot-10 European center LeBron James was willing to take pay cut for 

The latest NBA trade rumors suggest the New York Knicks are planning for contingencies if they plan to move on from backup center Mitchell Robinson at the trade deadline. Robinson has been solid when healthy, but he's rarely been on the court for New York. After appearing in only 31 games last season, he has yet to play this year.

The Knicks are confident that Robinson will return around early February, but if things don't trend in the right direction, they will look for help in the trade market. According to Knicks' insider Ian Begley, 6-foot-10 European center Jonas Valanciunas is one player on their radar.

The Washington Wizards big man has been a target for the LA Lakers and Golden State Warriors, too. Valanciunas was also reportedly one of the players LeBron James was willing to take a pay cut for in the offseason. However, Washington won his sweepstakes, signing him to a three-year $30.2 million contract.

Valanciunas is an affordable target, with his asking price being around two second-round picks. The Knicks can trade Robinson's contract to match salaries and go under the apron significantly.

However, Mitchell Robinson is a better fit for the Knicks if healthy. He could play in two big lineups next to Karl-Anthony Towns, who isn't as sound defensively. Robinson can compensate for that with his rim protection and rebounding. On the other hand, Valanciunas also has defensive limitations and is more well-rounded offensively.

It would be an awkward fit if the New York Knicks wish to use a two-big lineup against teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics.

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New York Knicks must prioritize preserving Karl-Anthony Towns and other starters' health

The New York Knicks have seen extreme highs and lows with their new-look roster, including Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges. A couple of weeks ago, they seemed like the team to beat after soaring to a 24-10 record. However, with five losses in seven games, some of the team's issues early in the season have resurfaced.

While the Knicks have added some worthy talent, they have lost their depth in the process. Tom Thibodeau has relied heavily on his starters, and their losing stretches could be a result of their fatigue levels. Karl-Anthony Towns, in particular, has shouldered a significant load, playing 34.7 minutes per game. He has averaged 25.4 points, 13.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists, shooting 55.0%, including 44.9% from 3, missing only one game.

If Mitchell Robinson doesn't look as healthy on his return, the Knicks should strongly consider getting Towns a backup, as it would help them to keep the 29-year-old fresh come playoff time.