MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Mitchell Robinson, the center for the New York Knicks, made his much-anticipated return to the court Friday night in a game against the Memphis Grizzlies, after having left ankle surgery. Robinson contributed six points and five rebounds over 12 minutes, helping lead the Knicks to edge out a narrow 114-113 victory.
Knicks Coach Tom Thibodeau expressed his satisfaction with Robinson’s comeback performance. “For the first game back after all this time, he did really, really well,” Thibodeau remarked. “We’ve been observing his progress during practice, and this is the next step for him.”
Robinson’s return comes as the Knicks face the longer absence of their reserve center, Ariel Hukporti. The team announced on Friday that Hukporti, a rookie from Germany standing at 6-11, underwent surgery to address a left knee meniscus tear suffered in Wednesday’s win over the Philadelphia 76ers.
Robinson, now in his seventh season with the Knicks, averaged 5.6 points and 8.5 rebounds throughout 31 games during the 2023-24 season before an injury sidelined him in the second round of the playoffs. Known for his efficiency, he has shot 70% from the floor over his career. Coach Thibodeau emphasized before the game how Robinson “brings a different dimension to our team,” highlighting how important his rebounding and defensive skills are, though acknowledging that his offensive contributions might take more time to get back to full strength.
Thibodeau plans to gradually increase Robinson’s minutes, noting, “He’s been out a long time, so short stints for a while to see where he is. Obviously, games are different than practice. Being a veteran, he knows who he is and just needs to play to his strengths and give his all.”
On the other hand, Ariel Hukporti had managed to participate in the Knicks’ win against the 76ers before his injury, logging 16 minutes in what was his first start of the season. He performed well, shooting 4 of 5 from the field, scoring eight points, and securing two rebounds. For the season so far, Hukporti has averaged 2.1 points and two rebounds across 25 games. According to the Knicks, he will be re-evaluated in about four to six weeks.
