The New York Knicks have suffered a significant blow as center Mitchell Robinson will likely miss the rest of the NBA Playoffs due to a stress injury in his left ankle. Robinson, who has been a key player off the bench for the Knicks, played just 12 minutes in Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers before the injury was confirmed. This is a recurring issue for Robinson, who previously missed 50 regular season games due to the same injury. Precious Achiuwa will be tasked with taking over center duties in Robinson’s absence, filling in for Isaiah Hartenstein.
Despite Achiuwa’s lackluster performance in Game 4 against the Philadelphia 76ers, where he went 0-for-5 from the field, he showed promise with seven rebounds and four blocks while posting a plus-11 on the floor. With Robinson out, the Knicks will rely on Achiuwa to provide a spark off the bench, particularly in rebounding. As the top team in offensive rebounding in the postseason, the Knicks will need Achiuwa to contribute significantly moving forward in order to make up for Robinson’s absence.
Robinson’s injury comes at a crucial time for the Knicks as they are competing in the second round of the NBA Playoffs against the Pacers. His absence will be felt on the defensive end as well, as Robinson’s ability to defend both in the paint and on the perimeter will be sorely missed. Despite his limited playing time in Game 1, Robinson’s impact on the court was noticeable, and his absence will undoubtedly be a challenge for the Knicks to overcome as they continue their playoff run.
Head coach Tom Thibodeau will need to make adjustments to the lineup to account for Robinson’s absence, with Achiuwa likely to see increased minutes at the center position. The Knicks will need to rely on their depth and resilience to make up for the loss of Robinson, as they face a tough challenge in the remainder of the playoffs. The team will need to adapt quickly and find ways to generate offense and defense in the absence of one of their key players.
It is clear that the loss of Mitchell Robinson will have a significant impact on the New York Knicks as they continue their playoff journey. With Robinson’s injury likely to keep him out for the rest of the postseason, the team will need to adjust quickly and find ways to fill the void left by his absence. Precious Achiuwa will be called upon to step up in Robinson’s place, particularly in rebounding and defensive roles. The Knicks will need to rely on their depth and resilience as they look to make a deep run in the NBA Playoffs without one of their key contributors.
