The New York Knicks are on the verge of bolstering their roster as they aim for the playoffs, with center Mitchell Robinson poised to make his much-anticipated 2024-25 season debut this week. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Robinson has been actively participating in full scrimmages, working his way back from ankle surgery he underwent back in May. The 26-year-old center has been sidelined since then, after sustaining the injury during the Knicks' postseason series against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Robinson’s return is particularly significant for the Knicks, who have struggled defensively, ranking only 18th for defensive rating as of last weekend. They have also seen their rebounding efforts diminish, slipping from first to 10th place in offensive rebounds this season. A dominant force under the basket, Robinson's career averages of 1.9 blocks and 11.7 total rebounds per 36 minutes highlight how valuable he will be as the Knicks look to solidify both their defensive foundation and rebounding strength.
While the team has fared well without him, entering Sunday’s game with a strong 37-19 record and holding the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, it's evident they could use his presence under the basket. With the addition of All-Star forward Karl-Anthony Towns now occupying Robinson’s role, the Knicks have been able to implement five-out spacing, creating challenges for opponents. Yet, the uncharacteristic drop in defensive performance is clear because, without Robinson, they are missing their primary rim protector.
“I’ve just been taking my time. I want to make sure it’s 100 percent; I ain’t trying to keep having these sit-outs and setbacks and stuff like,” Robinson commented earlier, indicating his cautious approach following his injury. He emphasizes his commitment to recovering properly this time around, contrasting the typical rush players might feel to return.
Further bolstering the Knicks' efforts, dual forward Josh Hart and OG Anunoby recently made their returns as well. Hart had missed two consecutive games due to “runner’s knee” but was confirmed available for the Boston game. Anunoby was similarly upgraded after recovering from foot issues, showcasing the depth building as the Knicks approach the playoffs. Their presence mitigates roster strain and adds to considerable winning potential against formidable teams.
On the eve of facing the Celtics, the Knicks look to capitalize on their recent success to maintain form. Coach Tom Thibodeau has faced scrutiny for relying heavily on his starters, and this has become evident with their top five-man unit including Towns, Anunoby, Hart, Mikal Bridges, and Jalen Brunson collectively logging over 800 minutes together. Other combinations have barely cracked 528 cumulatively.
“With him back in the fold, they could play defense-heavy bigger lineups with Robinson at center and Towns at power forward,” noted analysts about Robinson’s heavy impending inclusion with the team. This potential versatility can be pivotal for future matchups as they vie for playoff positioning.
The Knicks' depth, challenged by this season’s injuries, is more imperative now than ever. Having both Hart and Anunoby, along with the looming return of Robinson, offers the Knicks new resources to explore matchups effectively as they more than ever need options against opposing defenses.”
Despite the injuries hampering their operations, there’s renewed confidence among New York’s players. Rookie first-round pick Pacome Dadiet noted the importance of learning from seasoned professionals, stating, “I try to be focused and watch what others are doing, guys who have been in the league for like 10 years.” Meanwhile, analysts and commentators alike have underscored how the Knicks can execute planned rotations driven by returnees as they traverse the final stretch of the regular season.
With Robinson’s expected return this week, following one last scrimmage to solidify his readiness, the Knicks look to amplify their playoff aspirations, aiming to return to postseason glory and rid themselves of lackluster performances they've experienced during Robinson’s absence. The attention now pivots on whether he can speedily reacclimatize and successfully meld back within the squad as they face one of their biggest rivals, the Boston Celtics. The upcoming matches will measure the synergy and dependability the Knicks can manufacture as both they and their opponents scramble for playoff improvements as the season heads down the home stretch.