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3w ago

Mitchell Robinson Has Surgery on Broken Pinky and Plans to Play in Game 1

The Knicks say Robinson will wear a protective brace and his condition is now the team’s primary frontcourt decision ahead of the Finals.

May 21, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson (23) shoots a foul shot against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first quarter of game two of the eastern conference finals during the 2026 NBA playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Reports first surfaced that Robinson fractured his right pinky on Thursday and the team initially provided no timetable for his return.
  • Knicks coach Mike Brown confirmed Robinson underwent surgery on the finger and sources told ESPN he intends to play Game 1 of the NBA Finals on June 3 while wearing a brace.
  • Robinson is New York’s primary backup center and his playoff role has been to protect the rim and clean the offensive glass, making his availability a tactical concern for the series.
  • If Robinson is limited the Knicks plan to expand Ariel Hukporti’s minutes, lean more on Karl-Anthony Towns at center, or use smaller lineups to cover his rebounding and rim-protection losses.
  • Robinson’s prior right-hand surgeries and the limits a braced finger can impose on catching, finishing and rebounding mean opponents could target his hand and the Knicks must manage minutes and matchups carefully.