Mitchell Robinson, the New York Knicks’ center, is set to enter the last year of his contract with the team, raising important questions about the future of the big man and his role in the franchise’s plans. Drafted by the Knicks in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft out of Western Kentucky, Robinson has spent his entire professional career with New York, making his contract extension a pressing issue.
Robinson’s Defensive Impact and Offensive Contributions
Robinson’s value to the Knicks goes beyond traditional statistics. His defensive presence and offensive rebounding remain core elements of his game. Forbes contributor Tom Rende emphasizes Robinson’s rare ability to influence outcomes, especially during critical moments like the postseason.
“His ability to change the game on defense obviously adds an additional play style that becomes important during the postseason, but so does his offensive rebounding. Poor shooting games are inevitable for any team during a small sample size, and Robinson can swing those games back into the Knicks’ favor by giving them additional possessions,”
Rende wrote.
“He has been in the 96th percentile or better at his position for offensive rebounding in every season for the past four years. That skill set is a unique force that gives the Knicks the opportunity to diversify the way it attacks a series, which is really the point of this new era of New York basketball — provide the most options to win against a variety of play styles. Robinson gives them that tool.”
Future Prospects and Contract Decisions Ahead
Looking ahead, Robinson is expected to attract considerable interest from other teams once he becomes a free agent, especially if he can sustain or improve his recent performance. Although injuries have frequently interrupted his career, hindering consistent contributions, Robinson currently appears to be playing some of his best basketball with the Knicks.
Despite not boasting flashy numbers, Robinson’s work in the post remains essential for the Knicks’ overall success, bringing physicality and crucial rebounds that enable his team to compete effectively.
The Significance of Locking in Robinson for the Knicks’ Strategy
Securing Mitchell Robinson’s contract extension this offseason would provide the Knicks with continuity and defensive strength, elements that are critical as the team builds toward postseason success. His ability to help the Knicks adjust to different play styles offers a dimension that few other players can replicate, making him an indispensable piece of their roster moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What surgery did Mitchell Robinson have?
A. Robinson had surgery for a stress fracture in his left ankle during the playoffs. Initially, he hoped to be fit for the 2024-25 season. However, he has not completely healed yet and will be absent for the first few months of the season.
Q. Did Mitchell Robinson have surgery?
A. Robinson has faced many injuries that have significantly impacted his career. Since 2021, he has missed almost half of his games due to different medical conditions, such as a broken right foot. In December 2023, he missed 50 consecutive games because he had surgery to repair a stress fracture in his left ankle.