For the first time all season, New York Knicks fans can finally exhale. After months of injuries derailing their lineup — from Landry Shamet’s shoulder issue to OG Anunoby’s orbital contusion — the latest update from head coach Tom Thibodeau on Mitchell Robinson might be the best news yet.
"Active, very active," Thibodeau said when asked about Robinson’s status during practice. "It's more about how he feels the next day. He's doing everything, taking contact, then he has to get clearance from medical."
Mitchell Robinson was "very active" in practice today for the Knicks
Mitchell Robinson's long-awaited return for Knicks
Originally expected back in December, Robinson, 26, has been sidelined since last May following offseason surgery. However, multiple setbacks during rehab kept him from making a timely return. Without him, the Knicks struggled to replicate his elite interior defense and athleticism — even after acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns.
With crucial matchups looming against the Philadelphia 76ers (Wednesday), Memphis Grizzlies (Friday), and Miami Heat (Sunday), Robinson’s return could be the spark the Knicks need to make their final playoff push in the Eastern Conference.
"We've gone fifty-something games without our starting center. Guys have done a really good job stepping in. Thibodeau summed up. Could we do better? I always believe we can do better."
Now, with Robinson on the verge of returning, the Knicks may finally be at full strength — just in time for the postseason race.
