Knicks center Mitchell Robinson intends to play in NBA Finals opener despite finger surgery
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New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson plans to be on the floor for Game 1 of the NBA Finals, even after surgery to repair a broken pinkie on his right hand, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Head coach Mike Brown confirmed Friday that Robinson underwent the procedure and will wear a brace during the series. Brown did not specify when the injury occurred, noting only that it did not happen in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals or during practice sessions.
Footage from the Knicks’ series-clinching victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers showed Robinson clutching his right hand after a third-quarter rebound attempt. He stayed in the contest and helped New York complete the four-game sweep.
The Knicks open the Finals on Wednesday and are awaiting the winner of Saturday’s Western Conference finals Game 7 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs. The appearance marks the franchise’s first trip to the championship round since 1999.
Robinson, a key member of New York’s frontcourt rotation, is averaging 5.3 points and 5.5 rebounds in 14.2 minutes this postseason. His playing time has fluctuated with matchups, as opponents have occasionally resorted to intentional fouling to exploit his free-throw struggles.
During the regular season, the 26-year-old posted 5.7 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game, remaining among the NBA’s most productive offensive rebounders when healthy.
Source: Hoops Wire
