Knicks’ Mitchell Robinson Out for Playoffs with Ankle Injury
New York City, March 2023 – In a devastating blow to the New York Knicks’ playoff aspirations, the team has announced that center Mitchell Robinson is expected to miss the rest of the postseason due to a stress injury in his left ankle.
Emerging as a key cog in coach Tom Thibodeau’s defensive scheme, Robinson’s departure leaves a significant void on the roster, especially considering its impact on their rebounding and rim protection.
In Game 1’s victory over the Indiana Pacers, Robinson played a limited 12 minutes and displayed signs of a slower pace, prompting medical examination. Subsequent imaging revealed the severity of his injury, casting doubt on his availability for the entire playoff run.
According to the team’s timeline, Robinson’s recovery could extend up to eight weeks, coinciding with the potential end of the NBA Finals. This recurring ankle issue has plagued Robinson in recent months, forcing him to miss over 50 regular-season games earlier this year and hindering his performance in the Knicks’ first-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers.
In Robinson’s absence, Precious Achiuwa is expected to assume the primary backup center role, a task he performed admirably during Robinson’s previous absence in the 76ers series, contributing rebounds, blocks, and defensive intensity.
As the league’s top offensive rebounding team in the playoffs, the Knicks will heavily rely on Achiuwa’s rebounding prowess to continue generating scoring opportunities. Robinson’s exceptional knack for snagging boards and defending both the interior and perimeter will be sorely missed.
Despite the setback, the Knicks remain determined to advance in the playoffs, their sights set on the ultimate prize. They will need to rally around remaining players and find ways to adapt without Robinson’s presence, a testament to their resilience and the true spirit of competition.
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
