Knicks’ Mitchell Robinson Nears Return, Offering Timely Boost to New York’s Frontcourt

The New York Knicks are set to receive a significant reinforcement as Mitchell Robinson edges closer to returning from injury. The 26-year-old center missed the start of the 2025–26 season due to an ankle issue but participated in full practice on Thursday, head coach Mike Brown confirmed to The New York Post’s Stefan Bondy. His status for Friday’s game against the 4-0 Chicago Bulls will be decided before tip-off.

Robinson’s return couldn’t come at a better time. The Knicks have split their first four games under new head coach Brown, showing flashes of promise but also clear areas where his interior presence has been missed — particularly in rebounding and rim protection. With a matchup looming against a surging Bulls squad, having Robinson back could provide an immediate boost to New York’s defensive identity.

Last season, Robinson’s campaign was marred by injuries, limiting him to just 17 games in the regular season. Despite those setbacks, he made an impact when available, averaging 5.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and shooting 66.1% from the field. His efficiency around the basket and ability to control the paint remain central to the Knicks’ frontcourt rotation.

His presence was felt most during the Knicks’ playoff run, where he averaged 4.7 points and 7.1 rebounds per game as New York reached the Eastern Conference Finals before falling to the Indiana Pacers in six games. Healthy again, Robinson’s next challenge is proving he can sustain that level of play over a full season.

1. Building Around Health and Consistency

For Robinson, availability has long been the key variable in his career trajectory. While his physical tools — elite length, rebounding instincts, and interior defense — make him one of the most impactful big men in the East when healthy, recurring foot and ankle injuries have disrupted his development. Head coach Mike Brown has emphasized a careful balance in bringing Robinson back into the fold. The Knicks’ medical staff will continue monitoring his workload to ensure he avoids setbacks while regaining game rhythm. Brown’s cautious tone suggests Robinson’s minutes will likely be managed early on. “Mitchell’s an important part of what we’re building,” Brown said earlier this week. “We just want to make sure he’s in the best shape to help us long-term.” That approach aligns with the team’s broader focus under new leadership. With Tom Thibodeau’s exit and Brown’s arrival, New York has shifted toward a more measured philosophy — still defensive-minded, but mindful of preserving players’ health across an 82-game stretch.

2. The Role Robinson Plays in the Knicks’ Ambitions

When healthy, Robinson transforms the Knicks’ defensive schemes. His shot-blocking ability deters drives, his rebounding secures possessions, and his vertical spacing creates offensive lanes for the team’s guards. With Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle anchoring the offense, Robinson’s rim presence gives New York an efficient inside-out balance. The Knicks’ first four games have shown glimpses of a team capable of competing with the East’s elite, but also of one missing a stabilizing interior anchor. Robinson’s return is expected to alleviate the team’s rebounding struggles and help reset the physical tone that has defined the Knicks’ identity in recent years. Brown’s rotation will likely see Robinson paired alongside Randle in the frontcourt, restoring the combination that powered New York’s deep playoff run last spring. The team’s new additions have provided depth, but no player replicates Robinson’s defensive influence — especially on the glass and in pick-and-roll coverage. If Robinson can stay healthy, his presence could help elevate the Knicks from playoff contender to legitimate conference challenger — the kind of leap they’ve been striving to make since their resurgence two seasons ago.

3. Balancing Caution and Ambition

As New York prepares to face the undefeated Bulls, the organization must weigh short-term needs against long-term goals. The temptation to rush Robinson back into heavy minutes is strong, especially against elite competition, but protecting his health remains the top priority. The Knicks’ medical and coaching staff have made clear that Robinson’s workload will be closely monitored in the opening stretch. His long-term availability could prove more valuable than a few early-season wins, particularly with the team’s playoff ambitions in mind. New York’s 2-2 start has shown promise — but to reach their potential, they’ll need their defensive anchor at full strength. Robinson’s ability to dominate the paint, alter shots, and control tempo gives the Knicks an edge few Eastern Conference teams can match. As Brown continues to instill his system and the roster adjusts under new leadership, Robinson’s health and consistency will be central to determining how far this team can go in 2026.