The New York Knicks' 2023-24 season has presented a mixed bag of triumph and tribulation, predominantly shaped by the stellar performances and subsequent injury woes of center Mitchell Robinson. For the initial six weeks, Robinson was formidable, asserting his dominance in the paint, both defensively and offensively. His prowess was evident as he led the NBA in offensive rebounds, underscoring his capability as a premier lob threat and rim protector.
Though Robinson's shot-blocking abilities have seen a decline compared to previous seasons, his overall impact remained largely unblemished until a stress fracture in his left ankle threw a wrench into his season. The injury necessitated surgery, resulting in over three months off the court, a hiatus felt keenly by a Knicks team relying heavily on their central defensive figure.
A Season Disrupted
Robinson's injury cast a long shadow over the Knicks’ lineup. Coach Tom Thibodeau, known for his defensive-centric approach, had traditionally avoided centerless lineups, and suddenly found himself adjusting mid-season. The stress fracture and subsequent surgery sidelined Robinson until he faced another devastating blow during the playoffs — a re-injury of the same ankle, prompting another round of surgery.
Thibodeau spoke candidly about these challenges. "We'll look at some different things because we have versatility. We could see Julius [Randle] more at the 5," Thibodeau stated. "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."
Adjusting the Lineup
The absence of Robinson necessitated swift adjustments. Isaiah Hartenstein, who had ably filled in for Robinson following his initial injury, was a significant loss when he joined the Oklahoma City Thunder during free agency. Known for his efficiency in drop coverage and paint defense, Hartenstein's departure left another gap to fill in the Knicks' rotation.
Thus, Thibodeau turned to Jericho Sims as the starting center. While Sims, shorter than Robinson but taller than Precious Achiuwa, brought a dynamic, energetic presence to the court, his ability to defend pick-and-rolls in drop coverage did not meet the high standards set by his predecessors. Despite his struggles, Sims continued to generate additional possessions and set robust offensive screens.
Versatility and Future Prospects
Thibodeau's coaching philosophy over the past four seasons has prioritized big men maintaining their positions around the basket, minimizing the need for rotations. This approach took a hit with the injuries and lineup changes, forcing Thibodeau to explore different strategies, including possibly utilizing Julius Randle in a center role for short spells.
Another player, Precious Achiuwa, standing at 6-foot-8 and known for his agility, also came into consideration. Achiuwa’s ability to guard in the pick-and-roll and cover significant ground during rotations made him a viable option, although his stature presented certain limitations compared to the traditional centers Thibodeau favored.
As the Knicks navigate these turbulent waters, the return timeline for Robinson remains a beacon of hope. Expected to make a comeback between December and January, Robinson’s reintegration will be crucial. His recovery and return to form could very well dictate the team’s defensive strategy moving forward and potentially reignite their campaign as they aim for a strong finish to the season.