Mitchell Robinson will be out for a lengthy period of time. How will the Knicks make up for his absence?
Mitchell Robinson has made a huge impact on both ends of the floor for the Knicks this season. Robinson’s rebounding, defense, and hustle plays have been crucial to the team’s success. Since the Knicks commitment to small ball this season, his presence has been needed now more than ever. Well, it was needed. Sadly, Robinson announced that he will be undergoing left ankle surgery and will be re-evaluated in 8-10 weeks.
Ultimately, it will be challenging for the Knicks to make up for losing Robinson. On the other hand, this can also be an opportunity to see what the Knicks center rotation is really made of.
Sims Time
In the 113-117 loss to the Utah Jazz on Wednesday, Knicks 3rd Center Jericho Sims got the start, with Isiaiah Hartenstein coming off the bench. At the time being, this is probably the right lineup to go with. Sims might go through some growing pains as a starter but giving the young player an opportunity can be very beneficial down the road. He is a solid pick and roll player on offense and can also protect the rim defensively. Sims hasn’t really had the minutes to show his worth in the past. He has a golden opportunity to do so now. Sims’ potential growth can be huge for the Knicks during Robinson’s absence. We’ll see if he can take advantage of the opportunity.
Measuring Up
Recently, the Knicks signed veteran Taj Gibson to the roster after Robinson’s surgery was announced.
Gibson has already played in New York and has a strong relationship with Coach Thibodeau. The veteran presence that he brings playing both the power forward and center position is what this team needs. Also, with the mixture of Gibson, Hartenstein, Randle and Sims in the lineup, the Knicks can be a little more versatile in the front court.
When the Knicks played teams like the Bucks, Timberwolves, and Celtics, size proved to be a big issue. Since the loss of Obi Toppin, the Knicks have committed to small ball lineups, which have worked against versatile teams with size. The addition of Gibson gives the Knicks two legit power forwards and two centers that can matchup against bigger teams. Gibson might not play a bunch of minutes but his presence can be valuable alongside the other bigs on the team.
Overall, Mitchell Robinson’s injury is a serious blow for the Knicks this early in the season. Hopefully, Sims, Gibson, and Hartenstein can step up to the plate. Get Well Mitch!
