Knicks Rule Out Hart and Robinson for Season Opener; Towns Questionable
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The New York Knicks will open the regular season Wednesday in Cleveland without swingman Josh Hart and center Mitchell Robinson, according to the club’s official injury report released Tuesday.
Hart is sidelined by lumbar spasms, while Robinson is being held out as part of ongoing management of a left-ankle issue, head coach Mike Brown said. Brown noted that Robinson’s availability will be evaluated day-to-day under a load-management plan.
Karl-Anthony Towns, one of New York’s projected starters, is listed as questionable with a strained right quadriceps. Brown acknowledged that the former Timberwolves star is still adjusting to the coach’s up-tempo, movement-heavy system after missing the final preseason contests.
Brown Preaches Patience
Asked about expectations for a long-awaited championship run, Brown emphasized incremental progress. “The Finals don’t happen until June,” he told reporters. “We can’t skip steps. Some days we may slip back one or two, but the goal is to keep moving three, four, five forward.”
Towns Learning New Roles
Towns admitted he is “figuring out” how his versatile skill set fits in Brown’s offense, which differs sharply from former coach Tom Thibodeau’s more methodical approach. Brown outlined multiple spots where Towns could operate, including both corners, the top of the key and the dunker position.
Yabusele Reports Heavier
Forward Guerschon Yabusele, who joined the Knicks on a two-year free-agent deal, arrived at training camp at 283 pounds—18 pounds heavier than last season with Philadelphia. Brown said the player’s weight plan is being managed by the team’s performance staff.
New York’s season opener tips off Wednesday night at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Source: Hoops Rumors
