The NBA Finals are upon us, and the New York Knicks are gearing up for a crucial showdown with the Oklahoma City Thunder or San Antonio Spurs. With the series set to begin on Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. ET, all eyes are on the team's key players, especially the enigmatic Mitchell Robinson. Despite undergoing surgery on his broken right pinky finger, Robinson is reportedly 'planning to play' in Game 1, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. This is a significant development, as it highlights the importance of his presence on the court.
Robinson's impact on the Knicks' performance cannot be overstated. As the backup center behind Karl-Anthony Towns, he has been a cornerstone of the team's success. His ability to protect the rim and crash the glass has been invaluable, as evidenced by his impressive statistics. During the 2025-26 campaign, he averaged 5.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in just 19.6 minutes per game, shooting an astonishing 72.3 percent from the field. These numbers are even more remarkable when considering his limited playing time, as he has been a key contributor in just 13 postseason appearances.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Robinson's game is his impact on the team's offensive rebounding percentage. When he is on the floor, the Knicks boast a 39.5 offensive rebounding percentage, a figure that jumps to 29.8 when he is off the court. This statistic is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the significant role he plays in securing second-chance opportunities for his teammates. The Knicks' ability to dominate the glass offensively is a testament to Robinson's energy and presence on the court.
However, the question remains: how will Robinson's injury impact his performance in the NBA Finals? The fact that he underwent surgery on his pinky finger suggests that his recovery may be more challenging than initially anticipated. Despite this, the Knicks' decision to have him play in Game 1 indicates a level of confidence in his ability to manage the pain and contribute effectively. This raises an interesting dilemma: how will the team's medical staff and coaching staff manage Robinson's playing time and workload to ensure his health and performance?
In my opinion, the inclusion of Mitchell Robinson in the NBA Finals lineup is a strategic move by the Knicks. His presence on the court brings a unique energy and physicality that can disrupt the opposition. However, it is crucial to monitor his playing time and ensure that he is not overexerted, especially given the importance of his health in the long term. The team's medical staff will play a pivotal role in managing Robinson's recovery and ensuring he is fit to perform at his best.
As the NBA Finals unfold, the Knicks' strategy and Robinson's performance will be under the microscope. The team's success in the series will depend on their ability to manage his playing time and workload effectively. The inclusion of Robinson in the lineup is a bold move, and it will be fascinating to see how it unfolds in the coming games. The NBA Finals are a stage for the best players to showcase their skills, and Robinson's presence will undoubtedly be a talking point throughout the series.
