Knicks monitor Mitchell Robinson’s availability as Finals approach; Champagnie lifts Spurs; Kings evaluate draft hopefuls
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The New York Knicks are still waiting to learn whether backup center Mitchell Robinson will be cleared for Game 1 of the NBA Finals.
Head coach Mike Brown told reporters that Robinson completed individual work during Monday’s practice but offered no definitive timeline after the big man recently underwent surgery on his pinkie, the New York Post reported. Robinson’s size, rim protection and offensive rebounding are viewed as potential difference-makers against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs’ frontcourt should he be ready for the opener.
Spurs
San Antonio’s trip to the Finals required contributions beyond its marquee names, and Julian Champagnie delivered one of the largest in Game 7 of the Western Conference finals against Oklahoma City. The swingman erupted for 20 points, connected on six three-pointers, grabbed six rebounds and finished plus-16 in the series-clinching win.
“Julian is amazing. He deserves everything that he gets,” Wembanyama said, according to Yahoo Sports.
Champagnie’s rise from fringe roster candidate to key rotation piece stands out as one of the league’s notable success stories this season.
Kings
The Sacramento Kings continued their effort to get younger by hosting six prospects for a pre-draft workout on Monday, KCRA reported. Sacramento owns the No. 7 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft along with selections 34 and 45 in the second round.
None of Monday’s invitees are projected lottery picks, but several could draw interest later in the draft or as undrafted free agents as the Kings look to deepen their talent base.
Source: Hoops Wire
