Dave Litman
This won’t come as a huge surprise to many. But it’s a huge blow nonetheless. The New York Knicks will be without center Mitchell Robinson for an undetermined amount of time due to a broken pinky finger. The NBA Finals begin in six days.
As reported by Shams Charania and others, there is no timetable for Robinson’s return.
The backup center leads the NBA playoffs in field goal percentage, at 72.3%. But more importantly, he provides a huge role for the Knicks because of his offensive rebounding and defense. And when needed, they can roll out a two-big-man lineup with Karl-Anthony Towns and Robinson.
Robinson has suffered more than his share of injuries over his time in the league. His 60 games played this year are the most for him over the past four seasons. He played in only 48 games in the two previous years combined.
The Knicks will be playing in their first NBA Finals of this century, having last appeared on the big stage in 1999. They’re awaiting the winner of the San Antonio Spurs/Oklahoma City Thunder Western Conference Final. The Thunder lead 3 games to 2, with Game 6 in San Antonio Thursday night.
