The New York Knicks could face the NBA Finals with a significant loss in their frontcourt rotation. Mitchell Robinson has suffered a fractured pinky finger on one hand, and with the championship series just days away, his availability remains uncertain.
According to ESPN, the center suffered the injury earlier this week under circumstances that have not yet been publicly clarified. The New York franchise has not established a timeline for his recovery, increasing uncertainty as the first Finals game approaches, scheduled for next Wednesday.
Robinson's possible absence would be a major setback for Mike Brown. The big man has been a crucial piece off the bench throughout the season thanks to his impact on the boards, especially on the offensive glass, where he remained among the league's most dominant players.
The Knicks return to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999 and are seeking a championship that has eluded them since 1973. Their opponent will emerge from the Western Conference Finals being contested by the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs, a series the Thunder lead 3-2.
If he doesn't return in time, New York would lose a crucial physical presence in the paint against either the Thunder, led by Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein, or the Spurs, who have Victor Wembanyama as their primary interior anchor.