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Knicks already down two key players for season-opening game

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Oct 21, 2025 5:59 PM ET

Before the season even begins, the New York Knicks will be down two key role players in Wednesday's opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Who's out for New York?

It'll be guard/forward Josh Hart and center Mitchell Robinson that won't suit up for New York on Wednesday against Cleveland. Hart is dealing with lumbar spasms, and Robinson is load managing a left ankle injury.

Hart has missed just six games over the previous two seasons while Robinson has appeared in just 48 of a possible 164 games in that same span.

SNY sources: Josh Hart (lumbar spasms) and Mitchell Robinson (left ankle injury management) will miss tomorrow’s season opener vs Cleveland.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) October 21, 2025

Who will replace them?

If New York's official depth chart holds true, it'll be backup center Guerschon Yabusele and backup forward Pacome Dadiet as the beneficiaries when it comes to playing time.

Yabusele spent last season with the Philadelphia 76ers where he averaged 11 points and 5.6 rebounds in 70 games, both of which were career-highs. Dadiet appeared in 18 games with the Knicks last season, averaging 1.7 points per game.

Timeline for return

According to Knicks writer Ian Begley, Robinson's load management will be a season-long effort. It is very likely that Robinson is once again forced to miss an extended period of time. For Hart, the team is being cautious with his workload, meaning it is likely that he will be out for at the least the first couple weeks of the season.

It is unfortunate blow for a Knicks team that has championship aspirations in their first season under new head coach Mike Brown.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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