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Mitchell Robinson Focuses On Long-Term Health As Knicks Hold Out for His Return

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 12: Mitchell Robinson #23 of the New York Knicks looks on prior to the first half of their game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on November 12, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

The New York Knicks didn’t make much noise at the trade deadline, aside from trading Jericho Sims. Their focus remains on Mitchell Robinson’s eventual return from injury.

Robinson, who is still rehabbing from ankle surgery, spoke to the media for the first time in nine months on Tuesday, addressing his prolonged recovery. He explained that the delay wasn’t due to a setback but a focus on long-term health. He’s eager to return but still does not have a set timeline.

“I’ve just been taking my time. I want to make sure it’s 100 percent; I ain’t trying to keep having these sit-outs and setbacks and stuff like that,” Robinson said. “This time, I’m just going to play it smart. Usually, I’d be young and dumb to go out there and try to get back as fast as I can. I can’t do that no more.”

He detailed his mindset, acknowledging the importance of better habits and a smarter approach to recovery.

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“Not make dumb decisions like nutrition-wise; make sure I take care of my body the right way. After a game, I don’t ice. That’s part of learning and growing. I’m just going to focus to make sure this doesn’t happen again.”

Robinson has recently been cleared for contact and is now preparing for the next step, a full 5-on-5 practice.

“When the doctor tells me to go, I’ll be ready to go,” he said.

Robinson’s injury history has continued to grow, and it stings because he felt he was playing his best basketball at the start of the 2023-24 season.

“Right in the beginning, before it happened, in December, I think I was playing the best basketball of my career. The game was really slow to me. I could see everything.”

Robinson fractured his ankle, keeping him out from December 2023 until just before the playoffs. After a collision with Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid, he sustained a foot injury. He attempted to play through the injury in the semifinal series against the Indiana Pacers but ultimately had surgery once the Knicks’ season ended.

The Knicks were hopeful that Robinson would return by December, but both he and the team recognize his significance, especially at center. There’s no need to rush his recovery.

The Knicks hold the Eastern Conference’s No. 3 seed and are hoping for a deeper playoff run, with Robinson a key factor.