Knicks Rumors: Teams Inquiring About Mitchell Robinson’s Injury Before Trade Deadline

Key Takeaways:

• Multiple NBA teams are inquiring about Mitchell Robinson’s health status ahead of the trade deadline.
• Robinson has been out all season following offseason ankle surgery and is not yet cleared to run at full speed.
• The Knicks are taking a conservative approach to Robinson’s rehabilitation, with no clear timeline for his return.
• Robinson averaged 5.6 points and 8.5 rebounds in 31 games last season, making him a valuable asset when healthy.
• The Knicks are on a nine-game winning streak, holding a 24-10 record and third place in the Eastern Conference.

Multiple Teams Show Interest in Robinson’s Health

As the NBA trade deadline approaches, multiple teams have inquired about the health of New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson. Despite being sidelined all season due to offseason ankle surgery, Robinson remains a focal point of trade discussions. SNY’s Ian Begley reported, “Several teams have been inquiring about Robinson’s health. So that tells you that teams would have interest in trading for Robinson if they knew he was going to be healthy.”

Robinson’s Injury and Rehabilitation

Robinson underwent ankle surgery in December 2023, causing him to miss three and a half months of play. His return in late March 2024 was brief, as he suffered a left ankle sprain during the playoffs against the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite playing the next three playoff games, he missed the Knicks’ final six second-round contests versus the Indiana Pacers. Robinson has not played since May 6, 2024.

Currently, he has not been cleared to run at full speed, signaling that his return is not imminent. Begley provided insight into his progress: “As of Wednesday, he was not yet cleared to run at full speed. That’s the next significant step for Robinson in his rehab from offseason foot surgery.”

Uncertainty Clouds Return Timeline

The Knicks are exercising caution with Robinson’s rehabilitation. Begley noted, “Until he clears that hurdle, it’s difficult to say with any certainty when Robinson will be back on the court. But it’s fair to say that he’s not close to a return. If he were close to a return, he’d already be taking contact in a scrimmage setting.” This uncertainty leaves teams without clarity on his availability, yet the interest persists due to his potential impact.

Trade Interest Despite Uncertainties

The fact that teams are inquiring about Robinson’s health indicates a willingness to consider trading for him if he becomes healthy. Begley mentioned, “The three teams I’ve talked to recently didn’t have clarity on Robinson’s health.” Robinson’s reputation as one of the NBA’s best offensive rebounders makes him an attractive option for teams seeking to strengthen their roster.

Robinson’s Value When Healthy

At 26 years old and under contract through next season, Robinson brings significant value when on the court. Last season, he averaged 5.6 points and 8.5 rebounds over 31 games, starting in 21 of them. His athleticism and defensive skills make him a high-energy player capable of making immediate contributions in limited minutes.

Knicks Thriving Amidst Robinson’s Absence

Despite Robinson’s absence, the Knicks have been on a remarkable run, winning nine consecutive games to improve their record to 24-10. This surge places them third in the Eastern Conference. The starting lineup has been exceptional, but the team could benefit from added depth off the bench. Robinson’s return could provide the reinforcement needed to sustain their momentum.

Looking Ahead

For now, Robinson continues his rehabilitation, with no clear timeline for his return. The Knicks face a strategic decision: trade him to capitalize on his value or retain him to enhance their playoff push. As they prepare to face the Oklahoma City Thunder—who are themselves on a 12-game winning streak—the Knicks aim to extend their success while awaiting Robinson’s recovery.