Knicks face tall task with Mitchell Robinson out for two months

A quarter of the season is in the books for the NBA, and the New York Knicks are off to their best start in years. While a 13-10 record isn’t much to write home about for most teams, it’s a triumph for an organization that has been mired in mediocrity (and worse) for far too long.

Both Jalen Brunson and RJ Barrett are having what may turn out to be career years, and Julius Randle seems to be turning things around after a slow start. But it’s impossible to talk about the team’s success without mentioning center Mitchell Robinson.

Robinson is one of the top rebounders in the league, and he’s at the very top when it comes to offensive rebounds, hauling in 5.3 per game. He also averages 1.5 steals a game, which leads all centers. Robinson has helped the Knicks become a defensive juggernaut, and they are currently second in rebounds per game and sixth in opponent points per game.

These stats may not hold up for too much longer, however. After getting injured in a game against the Boston Celtics, Robinson had to undergo ankle surgery. He could be out of the lineup for two months or longer.

The Knicks may have a tough time holding the fort while he’s gone, but one of their strong points is their depth. They have two young centers – Jerico Sims and Isaiah Hartenstein – who will be called on in Robinson’s absence. Extra help is on the way as well, as Taj Gibson is coming back for another stint with the team.

It may also be time for Julius Randle to step up, and so far in the two games Robinson has missed, he seems ready for the challenge. Against Toronto, he scored 34 points and grabbed eight boards, and he tallied 32 points and 12 rebounds in Utah.

If things do go south defensively for the Knicks, they may be forced to think about a trade. The trade deadline is Feb. 8, which is right about the time Robinson is expected to be healthy enough to play. But whether they decide to make a move or not, the team will certainly be hoping that when Robinson does return, he will be able to give them a spark for the homestretch of the season.