On December 11, 2024, NBA insider Shams Charania reported that New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson is unlikely to be cleared to play until at least late January or early February. That’s particularly stinging news for the Knicks after losing 108-100 to the Atlanta Hawks last night and being outrebounded 58-49.
Robinson has been sidelined all season following two left ankle surgeries. The most recent procedure occurred in mid-May. Mitch has yet to be cleared for practice, and the Knicks are not anticipating his return for at least another month or two.
Over six seasons with the Knicks, Mitchell Robinson has averaged eight points, eight rebounds, and two blocks per game in 320 regular-season contests. At seven feet, 240 pounds, with a wingspan for days, he deserves his nickname “Block Ness Monster.” Due to injury, however, the 26-year-old played 31 games last season, for the second time in his career. He played 59 games during the 2022-23 campaign, and it has begun to seem reasonable to expect about that level of availability.
In Robinson’s absence, Karl-Anthony Towns has been starting at center. Towns has averaged 24.9 points and 13.6 rebounds, but he is not a rim protector of Robinson’s caliber, nor does it make great sense to have one of the team’s best three-point shooters hang around the rim, scrapping for offensive rebounds. Precious Achiuwa serves as Towns’ primary backup and occasionally shares the court with him, although he is more of a “small ball” center.
This extended timeline for Robinson’s recovery may prompt the Knicks to explore the trade market for additional frontcourt depth. Potential targets include Atlanta Hawks’ center Clint Capela. He recorded 13 rebounds and 11 points last night and could provide a reliable presence in the paint.
The Knicks are proceeding cautiously with Robinson’s rehabilitation to ensure he returns in peak form, aiming for him to be fully prepared for the latter part of the regular season and the playoffs. Given his injury history and this new delay, we have to question the prudence of hitching any championship hopes to his star.
Go Knicks.