When Knicks center Mitchell Robinson underwent a procedure on his left ankle last May, it was described as minor and there was an initial expectation that he’d be ready for the start of the 2024/25 season. His recovery has lasted several months longer than anticipated, but Robinson told reporters on Tuesday that he didn’t experience any setbacks during the process, according to Stefan Bondy of The New York Post.
“I’ve just been taking my time. I want to make sure it’s 100 percent, I ain’t trying to keep having these sit-outs and setbacks and stuff like that,” Robinson said. “This time, I’m just going to play it smart. Usually, I’d be young and dumb to go out there and try to get back as fast as I can. I can’t do that no more.”
Robinson went on to explain that he’s increasingly aware of the need to care of his body and is more cognizant of the importance of things like nutrition and icing after games.
“That’s part of learning and growing,” he said. “I’m just going to focus to make sure this doesn’t happen again.”
Robinson still hasn’t taken part in a full 5-on-5 practice, but has been cleared for contact and is inching closer toward his season debut. Shams Charania of ESPN recently reported that the 26-year-old could return by March 1.
For his part, Robinson is eager to resume suiting up, telling reporters on Tuesday that he thinks he was playing some of the best basketball of his career last season before going down with his initial ankle injury. In his first 21 appearances before getting hurt in December 2023, the big man averaged 6.2 points, 10.3 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game as New York’s starting center. He made it back last March before re-injuring the ankle in May.
With Robinson’s health still a question mark leading up to last Thursday’s trade deadline, there was some speculation that the Knicks might make him available in search of a more reliable depth option up front, but it didn’t sound as if the team ever engaged in any serious discussions about moving him. He said on Tuesday that he wasn’t fazed by the rumors, according to Bondy
“You know how people are,” Robinson said. “They keep telling me [about the rumors] and it is what it is. It’s a business. I’m not going to cry about it.”
While Karl-Anthony Towns is now the Knicks’ starting center, there should be a spot in the rotation for a healthy Robinson, who could play 20 or so minutes off the bench and spend some time on the court alongside Towns, Bondy suggests. The seventh-year veteran had a message on Tuesday for anyone who may doubt his ability to give the team positive minutes down the stretch.
“Let them sleep,” he said. “I’ll wake they ass up … I’m just going to continue to do what I do best. Offensive rebounding. Block shots. Defend. Stuff like that. I can’t wait to see how it goes. I’ll see.”
Knicks are 35-18, there’s no reason whatsoever to rush him back.
Yes sir ……. need him for a good run this year.
They truly love this guy who can’t stay healthy….
Love Mitch, he’s a funny engaging guy, but he’s sarcastically playing to 2k nation with these statements. Like any player, his return to the court following an injury starts with a medical decision, i.e., clearance by the medical staff. Mitch was only recently cleared for 5-on-5 practice. So, even if he weren’t the wise old soul he is currently, it was going to be a return around March 1st.
Lots of soft players all around the league.
lots of fans who never played the game not understanding how injuries work
Love Mitch, but he’s always hurt and will never be 100%. Don’t wait too long to come back.
I know Mitch has come back too soon before. There are articles about it. I guess you can blame it on youth. Knicks need him 100% and in game shape. They are a true contender with him in lineup. There is no point in rushing him. Hukporti has been better than decent. Mitch is a big key for Knicks to have success in playoffs this year. NYK
“100%” just to foul-out in the 2nd quarter smh. Dude is trash. Knicks fans are waiting for a nothing-burger and a 2nd round exit.
Low energy trolling. Try again.
As of right now second round vs Boston doesn’t look good. Drop too 4 and take your chances with Cleveland.
A Yankee fan running ……. dude
With Mitch its a series. Can they beat both Cavs and Celtics? That we will have to see …….
In Thibs we Trust.
Way to feed off narratives from his rookie season. Look at his fouls per 36 in recent years before commenting and sounding like an idiot.
Trolls don’t care about facts lol.