The New York Knicks’ 2023-24 season narrative has been significantly shaped by the form and injury struggles of their cornerstone center Mitchell Robinson. For the opening six weeks, Robinson was an imposing figure on both ends of the court, demonstrating a commanding presence in the paint.
The Knicks' success in the early season was largely due to Robinson's league-leading offensive rebounds, a testament to his tenacity and positioning underneath the basket. He emerged as one of the premier lob threats and rim protectors in the NBA, establishing his value to the team's overall structure and defensive schemes.
However, Robinson's ability to block shots saw a decline compared to his previous seasons. Despite this, his influence remained significant until a stress fracture in his left ankle derailed his season. The injury was severe enough to necessitate surgery, leading to a prolonged absence of over three months.
Impact on the Knicks' Roster
Robinson’s injury set off a chain reaction within the Knicks' roster. In his stead, Isaiah Hartenstein stepped up, initially filling the void effectively. Hartenstein’s seamless integration into the lineup was crucial for the Knicks, especially considering his capability in drop coverage and as a paint defender. Unfortunately, Hartenstein's contributions would soon be short-lived as he moved to the Oklahoma City Thunder during free agency.
Head coach Tom Thibodeau's defensive philosophy has long focused on minimizing rotations and maintaining a strong presence around the basket, often avoiding centerless lineups. This approach came under strain with the spate of injuries during the season. Robinson’s misfortune continued into the playoffs, where he re-injured the same ankle, prompting another round of surgery and further stretching the Knicks' resources at center.
Sims and the Center Dilemma
Thibodeau turned to Jericho Sims following Robinson's injury. Although Sims brought energy and an ability to generate extra possessions with his offensive screens, his defensive frailties in pick-and-roll situations were exposed. Standing shorter than Robinson but taller than the agile Precious Achiuwa, Sims' performance was a mix of highs and lows, reflecting the challenges of stepping into such a crucial role under these circumstances.
Sims’ shortcomings in drop coverage necessitated further adjustments. Thibodeau, recognizing the need for flexibility, addressed the potential for experimenting with different lineup configurations to cope with the injuries. "We'll look at some different things because we have versatility. We could see Julius [Randle] more at the 5," Thibodeau noted. "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."
The Road Ahead
As Robinson works towards an expected return around December or January, the Knicks find themselves at a critical juncture. They must navigate the season without their primary rim protector for an extended period. Until then, Thibodeau's tactical flexibility and the collective resilience of the squad will be put to the test.
Achiuwa, known for his agility and defensive versatility, especially in guarding pick-and-rolls and covering extensive ground, could also play a pivotal role. His style offers a different dynamic, one that might complement the Knicks’ adjustments as they strive to maintain their defensive identity in Robinson's absence.
Despite the adversity, the Knicks have shown an ability to adapt, leveraging their depth and the remaining talents on their roster. The forthcoming months will undoubtedly be challenging, but Robinson's eventual return could provide a much-needed boost as the Knicks aim to solidify their playoff aspirations.
The Knicks' ongoing journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of sports, where adaptability and strategic acumen often pave the way to overcoming obstacles. With Robinson's return on the horizon, the team and its fans can anticipate a reinvigorated push towards their season goals.