The New York Knicks will be without center Mitchell Robinson at the start of the regular season due to offseason ankle surgery, as confirmed by league sources to ESPN. This development further strains an already limited center position.
Robinson, who participated in just 31 games last season, underwent ankle surgery in December. He sustained another foot/ankle injury during the Knicks’ first-round playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers, resulting in him missing the final six games of the second-round series against the Indiana Pacers.
Sources indicate that the Knicks hope to have Robinson back in December or January, although his return will depend on the progress of his rehabilitation.
Center Position Challenges
The center position was already in question after last season’s main starter, Isaiah Hartenstein, signed a three-year, $87 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Alongside Robinson’s absence, New York has re-signed Precious Achiuwa for one year at $6 million this summer and retains fourth-year center Jericho Sims.
In a recent interview with NBA.com, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau mentioned the possibility of forward Julius Randle, who has a $30.9 million player option for the 2025-26 season, playing at center in a small-ball lineup.
Historically, Thibodeau has favored a more traditional approach, prioritizing size and rim protection in his defensive schemes, both with the Knicks and during his previous coaching stints with the Timberwolves and Bulls.
Offseason Developments
The news regarding Robinson follows eventful summer for the Knicks. They executed a surprising trade by acquiring Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets, marking the first trade between these two franchises in four decades.
Additionally, New York secured contract extensions for coach Thibodeau and star guard Jalen Brunson, along with re-signing free agent forward OG Anunoby to a substantial five-year, $212.5 million deal.