Doug Mann
2 min read • May 08, 2024
Posted in
The New York Knicks are charging ahead in their second-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, currently holding a 1-0 lead. However, their journey to postseason success has hit a roadblock with the latest injury setback.
Mitchell Robinson, a key support figure in the Knicks' lineup, faces an extended period on the sidelines due to a left ankle injury. The team announced on Tuesday that Robinson will undergo a six-to-eight-week evaluation after sustaining a stress injury to his troublesome ankle, ending his season.
ESPN's Brian Windhorst revealed that Robinson's absence from Wednesday's Game 2 was due to the management of his left ankle injury, a setback he also faced during the first-round against the Philadelphia 76ers. This injury saga adds to Robinson's woes, having missed 50 regular-season games due to left ankle surgery.
The 26-year-old's absence deals a blow to the Knicks, where he was anticipated when healthy to play a significant role. However, his reduced playing time and performance drop-off this season confirmed underlying injury concerns.
Robinson's absence compounds the Knicks' existing challenges, particularly their shallow bench. In Game 1 against the Pacers, Robinson's two bench points were a stark contrast to the Pacers' bench dominance.
With Robinson sidelined alongside Julius Randle and Bojan Bogdanović, attention turns to Precious Achiuwa to fill the void. However, his limited postseason contribution underscores the Knicks' reliance on their starting lineup, led by Isaiah Hartenstein and Jalen Brunson.
As this series progresses, the Knicks will need to navigate these injuries to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals to play either the Celtics or Cavs.
Written by Doug Mann