Knicks' Mitchell Robinson out at least three weeks after surgery

Starting center Mitchell Robinson underwent successful surgery on Thursday to repair a right thumb fracture, the Knicks announced. He will miss at least three weeks, which is when he will be reevaluated.

Robinson exited Wednesday’s loss to Washington with the injury, which was initially ruled a sprain until the fracture was discovered upon further testing. 

The 24-year-old has dealt with a number of injuries in his five NBA seasons, including hand and foot surgeries in 2021 to repair fractures. He also missed eight games in November with a knee sprain.

It’s a tough blow for New York, as Robinson anchors the team’s 11th-ranked defense. He’s also one of the top offensive rebounders in the NBA, only trailing Steven Adams in total offensive rebounds (165) and offensive rebounding percentage (16.9%).

Through 38 games, Robinson is averaging 7.2 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in 26.9 minutes per contest. Backup centers Isaiah Hartenstein and Jericho Sims will be in line for more minutes with Robinson out.