Overview
- The Knicks officially listed Mitchell Robinson as questionable for Game 1 with a fractured right fifth metacarpal and multiple outlets report he is expected to be available.
- Robinson underwent surgery last week to repair the fracture which reporters and team insiders clarified is a fifth metacarpal injury rather than a simple pinky fracture.
- He took part in limited on‑court work and portions of practice while wearing a wrap or brace, but the team has not said he took part in full contact drills and doctors must sign off before he can play.
- If he does play he will wear a sizable protective brace that could reduce his ability to secure contested rebounds, catch lobs and finish through contact, which are the skills he provides against Victor Wembanyama.
- If Robinson is unavailable or limited the Knicks plan to shift minutes to Karl‑Anthony Towns and deeper frontcourt options such as Ariel Hukporti or Mohamed Diawara, a change that would alter New York’s rotation and defensive matchups.