As the New York Knicks embark on their 2023-24 season, the influence of center Mitchell Robinson looms large, though his journey continues to be marred by injuries. For the initial six weeks, Robinson was undeniably dominant, making a significant impact on both ends of the floor.
Leading the NBA in offensive rebounds, Robinson had firmly established himself as a premier lob threat and a staunch rim protector. However, his shot-blocking prowess appeared diminished compared to previous seasons. Nonetheless, his presence was a cornerstone for the Knicks, until an ill-fated stress fracture in his left ankle shifted the team's trajectory.
Robinson's Injury Woes
The stress fracture in Robinson’s ankle required surgery, sidelining him for over three months. Just as he was poised to return to form during the playoffs, misfortune struck again. A re-injury to the same ankle necessitated another surgical intervention, casting a long shadow over his season. The Knicks now await Robinson's return, tentatively expected between December and January.
In Robinson’s absence, the Knicks faced another setback with the departure of center Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder during free agency. Hartenstein had seamlessly filled in for Robinson, excelling in drop coverage and as an effective paint defender. His departure left a void that the Knicks sought to address under the guidance of head coach Tom Thibodeau.
Adjusting the Roster
Thibodeau's defensive philosophy has fundamentally relied on minimizing rotations and ensuring the presence of big men around the basket. Historically, he has shied away from centerless lineups, favoring the traditional approach. Following Robinson's initial stress fracture last December, Thibodeau turned to Jericho Sims as the starting center. Although shorter than Robinson, Sims brought an energetic, bouncy playing style to the team. Known for generating additional possessions and setting strong offensive screens, Sims faced challenges in defending pick-and-rolls in drop coverage.
Additionally, the Knicks have Precious Achiuwa in their ranks. Standing at 6-foot-8, Achiuwa offers agility and defensive versatility, particularly in pick-and-roll situations, where he can cover substantial ground during rotations. Both Sims and Achiuwa have roles to play as the team navigates the ongoing absence of Robinson.
Thibodeau Contemplates New Strategies
Given the evolving circumstances, Coach Thibodeau is contemplating alternative strategies. He mentioned the possibility of utilizing Julius Randle at the center position more frequently. "We'll look at some different things because we have versatility. We could see Julius [Randle] more at the 5," Thibodeau stated. "I don't want to do that for long stretches, it would take its toll, but to have him do it for 10 or 15 minutes, I think he can do it well. He also would create a lot of [offensive] advantages."
While not ideal for extensive periods, Randle’s stints at center could introduce fresh dynamics to the Knicks’ offense. The team’s goal is to balance these experimental shifts while minimizing the wear and tear on their key players.
Looking Forward
As Robinson works towards his comeback, the Knicks are in a phase of adaptation and evaluation. The blend of Sims, Achiuwa, and possibly Randle in the center position offers a variety of defensive and offensive configurations. Thibodeau’s flexibility and strategic adjustments will be critical as the Knicks navigate this challenging period.
The road ahead is uncertain, but with a commitment to versatility and the anticipated return of a healthier Robinson, the Knicks aim to maintain their competitive edge in the NBA. Each player's contributions will be vital as the team aspires to solidify their presence and make a significant impact in the league.