The New York Knicks were tight-lipped leading up to their game on Friday night about whether center Mitchell Robinson would make his season debut. However, he inadvertently let the cat out of the bag by posting “I’m ready” on Facebook earlier in the day. Despite the intrigue surrounding his return, Robinson’s lingering left ankle issues raised questions about how long he would be able to contribute.
Robinson did indeed start Friday’s game, but uncertainty looms regarding his future playing time and the Knicks’ approach to managing his workload. When asked if this pattern would persist throughout the season, Robinson could only say, “I don’t know.” This uncertainty not only affects Robinson but also has implications for the entire team, especially given the off-season changes that included Mike Brown taking over as coach, succeeding Tom Thibodeau.
Brown’s arrival has brought a new system to the team, one that diverges from the strategies that propelled them to the Eastern Conference Finals last season. His decision to move Robinson into the starting lineup while relegating Josh Hart to the bench is considered a gamble. Hart, who set a franchise record for triple-doubles last season, proved his worth even when Robinson was sidelined for nearly the entire season. The shift begs the question of whether Boston’s approach of relying on Robinson for an entire season can be sustained, as his health remains a significant concern.
Robinson’s ability to influence the game through elite defense and rebounding is undeniable, but his ongoing health issues complicate matters. He missed the first four games of the season and has been recovering from two surgeries on his left ankle. Brown mentioned the challenges but affirmed the team’s commitment to developing Robinson into the best version of himself.
As the Knicks navigate these changes, they’ve rotated through several different players in the starting lineup, a situation that has prevented the team from building continuity. While Hart has expressed his willingness to play a secondary role, he is wary of the instability that comes with frequently changing lineups.
“I’m cool not starting,” Hart said, emphasizing his desire for a consistent role rather than being a game-time decision based on the status of other players. He is determined to adapt and solidify his contributions to the team, especially given the challenges that come with multiple coaching changes throughout his career.
As the season unfolds, the Knicks’ strategy with Robinson and the overall team dynamic will be pivotal in shaping their performance and potential for success. Embracing their current situation, they are focused on making the necessary adjustments to come together as a cohesive unit.