Mitchell Robinson plans to play in Game 1 of the NBA Finals while wearing a brace on his right hand after undergoing surgery to repair a fractured pinky finger. Head coach Mike Brown said Robinson was not injured during Game 4 or in practice, though the exact timing of the injury remains unclear. Robinson is averaging 5.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 0.6 blocks in 14.2 minutes per game during the playoffs. The Knicks' success has closely tracked his availability, posting a 40-20 record with Robinson in the lineup compared to 13-9 when he was sidelined. His availability and effectiveness could be a key factor in New York's ability to match up with Spurs star Victor Wembanyama.
Status
Game Status: Expected to play in Game 1
Surgery/No Surgery: Surgery on right pinky finger
Why It Matters
The Knicks face frontcourt depth concerns just as they secured their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999 by sweeping the Cavs on Monday. Before the injury, Robinson averaged 5.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks over 13 playoff games. If Robinson is limited or suffers a setback, the Knicks may be forced into smaller lineups against one of the NBA's most dominant interior players.
Pro Football Doc Analysis
Mitchell Robinson suffered a fractured fifth metacarpal, the hand bone connected to the pinky finger, and has already undergone surgery to stabilize the fracture. While Robinson is unlikely to be fully healed by the start of the NBA Finals, the surgery should provide enough stability for him to play.
According to Pro Football Doc, the combination of surgical hardware, protective bracing, and potential buddy taping should allow Robinson to function despite the injury. His role also works in his favor. Robinson is primarily asked to defend, rebound, protect the rim, and set screens rather than handle the ball or rely on perimeter shooting.
The biggest question is not whether Robinson will be fully recovered, but whether he will have enough stability in the hand to contribute. Pro Football Doc expects Robinson to be available for Game 1 of the NBA Finals and to play through the injury.
Bottom Line
Mitchell Robinson's availability for June 3 remains the biggest concern moving forward. He is expected to try to play through the injury, but it remains to be seen how much the brace will impact his rebounding and defensive effectiveness.
