
The New York Knicks might not have their best hope at stopping Victor Wembanyama when they take the floor for Game 1 of the NBA Finals.
Backup big man Mitchell Robinson broke his pinkie finger on his shooting hand, and his availability for the NBA Finals is up in the air.
While he's not a starter, his presence on the boards, size and rim protection could be crucial against the San Antonio Spurs' two-way superstar.
However, according to ESPN's Shams Charania, the Knicks remain on the fence about whether to let him suit up for the biggest game of the season.
“I’m told that Mitchell Robinson still fully plans, is resolute, on playing Game 1 on Wednesday night against the Spurs. The Knicks still must clear him for that game. What he has is a broken pinkie, but even more specifically, damage to his fifth metacarpal,” Charania said.
Even if he does suit up, Robinson will clearly be limited. He's never been an offensive factor outside of dunks and put-backs.
“He’s going to need to wear a brace, I’m told. A pretty sizable one, in order to play,” added the insider.
The latest on status of key Knicks center Mitchell Robinson for Game 1 of the Finals in San Antonio for NBA Today: pic.twitter.com/bNLKaFP1Ut
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 2, 2026
Robinson isn't a floor-stretcher, and he has always struggled to even make free throws, so whether he shoots or not won't move the needle for Mike Brown's team. If anything, he's the last person they want taking 10-plus shots a night.
Nevertheless, Robinson is an outstanding defensive big. Karl-Anthony Towns has always struggled with physicality, and he might have a tough time keeping Wembanyama in check.
Even though Wembanyama also plays in the perimeter and would likely like to drive Robinson away from the paint, Robinson's 7-foot frame and 7-foot-4 wingspan might be this team's best resource against the French superstar.
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