NBA Notes: Knicks, Mitchell Robinson, Spurs, Julian Champagnie, Kings

Knicks

The Knicks are still awaiting clarity on Mitchell Robinson‘s availability for Game 1 of the NBA Finals.

According to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post, coach Mike Brown said Robinson participated in individual work during practice but did not provide a firm update on his status after the backup center recently underwent surgery on his pinkie.

If Robinson is available, he could become one of New York’s most important players in the series.

His size, rim protection and offensive rebounding could prove valuable against Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs’ frontcourt. Robinson has frequently impacted games without needing touches, making him a potential X-factor as the Finals get underway.

Spurs

The Spurs don’t reach the NBA Finals without several key contributions beyond their stars.

One of the biggest came from Julian Champagnie in Game 7 against Oklahoma City.

After struggling offensively earlier in the series, Champagnie erupted for 20 points while knocking down six three-pointers. He also grabbed six rebounds, played strong defense and finished with a game-high plus-16.

Victor Wembanyama couldn’t say enough afterward.

“Julian is amazing,” Wembanyama said, via Kelly Iko of Yahoo Sports. “He deserves everything that he gets.”

Champagnie has become one of the league’s better success stories, going from a player fighting for a roster spot to a major contributor on a Finals team.

Kings

The Kings are hoping to get younger this offseason and took another step in that process Monday.

According to Sean Cunningham of KCRA, Sacramento hosted six prospects for a pre-draft workout as the organization continues evaluating talent ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft.

The Kings own the seventh overall pick as well as selections No. 34 and No. 45 in the second round.

While none of the players participating in Monday’s workout are projected lottery picks, several could emerge as options for Sacramento later in the draft or as undrafted free-agent targets.

For a Kings team looking to add youth and depth, every evaluation matters.