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When's Mitchell Robinson's Returning?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Faria | Last updated Nov 22, 2024 6:45 PM ET

The New York Knicks have become one of the best offenses in the NBA with the addition of Karl-Anthony Towns. It's why the team was able to win their last four contests including Wednesday night in a blowout win.

There has been a clear issue with the team to start the season, though.

Towns was never a top defender at the center position. It's a big reason why New York's defense is ranked 13th in the league in points per game.

Luckily for New York, there is help on the way.

New York hasn't had defensive star Mitchell Robinson on the court over the last few months due to an ankle injury. For the first time this season, the top defender joined the team on the road trip to Phoenix and has started shooting on the side. It's something that head coach Tom Thibodeau has been pleased to update.

“It’s going to be a long progression. So obviously he started but be patient, go step by step," Thibodeau explained. “He hasn’t been cleared for practice but he’s done some shooting and that sort of thing. Can do conditioning in the weight room.

“He’s making good progress. Just have to be patient.”

Most analysts have expected Robinson to return somewhere after the new year, and it should allow New York to fix their defensive woes.

When healthy, Robinson is one of the better defenders in his position. He's been a defensive stalwart against top matchups like Joel Embiid in previous playoff series, and someone New York desperately needs to complete their roster.

And his return is coming sooner than later.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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