Sources: Knicks' Mitchell Robinson Set to Miss Start of the Season

New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson will miss the start of the regular season following ankle surgery in the offseason, according to league sources who spoke to ESPN. This leaves the Knicks with even fewer options at center.

Robinson, who appeared in just 31 games last season and underwent ankle surgery in December, re-injured his foot/ankle during the first-round playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers, causing him to miss the final six games of the second-round series against the Indiana Pacers.

The Knicks are hoping Robinson can return by December or January, but his timeline will depend on the progress of his rehabilitation.

With Robinson sidelined, the center position is already a concern after last season’s primary starter, Isaiah Hartenstein, signed a three-year, $87 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder. In addition to Robinson, New York re-signed Precious Achiuwa to a one-year, $6 million deal over the summer and still has fourth-year center Jericho Sims.

Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau mentioned in an interview with NBA.com last week that he envisions scenarios where forward Julius Randle—who has a $30.9 million player option for the 2025-26 season—could play at center in a small-ball lineup. Historically, however, Thibodeau has preferred to utilize size and rim protection at the pivot during his coaching career, including his time with the Knicks, Timberwolves, and Bulls.

This news about Robinson follows a busy summer for the Knicks, which included the surprise acquisition of Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets—marking the first trade between the two franchises in 40 years. New York also secured contract extensions for Thibodeau and star guard Jalen Brunson, while re-signing free agent forward OG Anunoby to a five-year, $212.5 million deal.