Mitchell Robinson, the center for the New York Knicks, has had a challenging career when it comes to availability. Despite his impressive athleticism and exceptional skills in rim protection and rebounding, injuries have significantly hindered his contributions. As the 2025-26 season unfolds, the Knicks face ongoing challenges related to his presence in the lineup.
Robinson’s Career Overview
Since entering the NBA in 2018, Robinson has demonstrated remarkable potential. His career averages include:
- 16.1 rebounds per 100 possessions
- 3.8 blocks
- Defensive rating of 107
However, he has only participated in 342 of 565 possible regular season games, missing approximately 40% of them.
Current Season Performance
This season, Robinson has played in only five of the Knicks’ first 11 games. The Knicks’ record in those games stands at 3-2. While they remain competitive in the Eastern Conference, their performance is noticeably better when Robinson is active on the court.
Statistics Impacting Team Performance
Robinson’s presence significantly affects several key performance metrics for the Knicks:
- Offensive Rating: 134.3
- Net Rating: 24.0
- Rebound Percentage: 58.9%
With Robinson in the lineup, the team excels in scoring and rebounding. They rank in the 98th percentile in point differential (+21.2) and the 100th percentile in points per 100 possessions (137.6) and offensive rebound percentage (47.9), according to Cleaning the Glass.
Injury Management and Future Potential
Last season, Robinson played only 17 games due to injuries, including a left ankle issue that required surgery two years ago. Consequently, the Knicks have been cautious in reintegrating him into the lineup. Coach Mike Brown noted that Robinson is now able to handle longer minutes, suggesting improved conditioning and potential for increased contributions.
For the Knicks to harness their full potential this season, they will need Robinson to consistently exceed his current average of 16.6 minutes per game. As the organization aims for growth, relying on their star center will be pivotal in their quest for success.
