Mitchell Robinson’s Ankle Injury Continues to Hamper Knicks’ Roster Dynamics

NEW YORK, NY — Mitchell Robinson‘s availability for the New York Knicks remains uncertain as the center sits out again due to ongoing left ankle injury management. This designation has been a concern since the start of the NBA season. On Monday night at Madison Square Garden, Coach Mike Brown opted for Landry Shamet in the starting lineup, who contributed 11 points against the Wizards.

Robinson has only played a total of 33 minutes across the Knicks’ first seven games and has not been able to participate in consecutive matchups. Monday’s contest was the second game of the Knicks’ first back-to-back of the season. Brown confirmed Robinson has been on a minutes restriction as part of a load management plan. “It’s just part of his load management,” Brown said. “Whatever they tell me, I’m gonna do.”

In the previous game against the Bulls, Robinson briefly exited after landing awkwardly on his right ankle but did return to finish the game with 13 minutes played, five rebounds, and no points. This left ankle issue, which required surgery 18 months ago, has troubled the center for most of his career, including last season when he missed substantial playing time.

Despite the burden of injury, Robinson made his season debut against Chicago, where he scored four points and grabbed 11 rebounds in just 20 minutes of play. Meanwhile, teammate Josh Hart, who also faced injury challenges this season, managed to record a double-double with 12 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists against the Wizards on Monday.

Hart has had a difficult start to the year, previously sidelined with lower back spasms and recently revealing he has nerve damage in his shooting hand. “Obviously frustrating,” said Hart. “It comes with being in a contact sport, so it is what it is.”

Guerschon Yabusele stepped up in Robinson’s absence and logged 14 minutes during the game, although he did not score on his two attempts. Karl-Anthony Towns praised Yabusele’s contributions, stating, “He impacted the game of winning.”

Robinson, when pressed about his absence early in the season, was tight-lipped, stating, “I ain’t telling you nothing.” He did acknowledge that his missed games were “part of the plan” but remained unsure if this would remain a consistent strategy. “I don’t know,” he added.

The continued reliance on load management has raised questions about Robinson’s availability throughout the season, as he strives to balance his health and contribution to the team. Coach Brown highlighted Robinson’s unique abilities, stating, “You get a vertical threat offensively and an anchor defensively; it’s hard to replace.”

Moving forward, the Knicks anticipate Robinson’s potential return to full strength while also looking to integrate their star free agent acquisition, Jordan Clarkson, who has shown promise in his recent performances. Clarkson scored 15 points in each of the last two games, helping to provide the Knicks with the offensive depth they sought after the previous season.

The Knicks will face significant tests in the upcoming games as they navigate injuries and work toward maximizing their lineup effectiveness.