The New York Knicks have faced a challenging 2023-24 season, significantly impacted by the stellar play and subsequent injury struggles of their center, Mitchell Robinson. For the first six weeks, Robinson was a dominant force, leading the NBA in offensive rebounds and establishing himself as a premier lob threat and rim protector. However, his promising start was marred by a stress fracture in his left ankle, necessitating surgery and sidelining him for over three months.
The Knicks felt Robinson's absence acutely, especially since his ability to block shots had already diminished compared to his earlier seasons. The return of Robinson to the court was eagerly anticipated, slated for December or January, but the center re-injured the same ankle during the playoffs, requiring yet another surgery.
Adjustments and Strategic Shifts
The injury woes didn't stop there for the Knicks. They also lost center Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder during free agency. Hartenstein had admirably filled in for Robinson, excelling in drop coverage and defending the paint. His departure left a notable void in Tom Thibodeau's defensive scheme.
Thibodeau, known for his defensive philosophy that minimizes rotations and keeps big men near the basket, turned to Jericho Sims as the starting center after Robinson's initial injury last December. Sims, though not as tall as Robinson, brought energy, a bouncy playing style, and a knack for generating additional possessions and setting strong offensive screens. Yet, Sims struggled to effectively defend pick-and-rolls in drop coverage, a crucial aspect of the Knicks' defensive strategy.
Exploring New Versatility
In light of these challenges, Thibodeau has hinted at unconventional adjustments. "We'll look at some different things because we have versatility. We could see Julius [Randle] more at the 5," Thibodeau stated. "I don't want to do that for long stretches, it would take its toll, but to have him do it for 10 or 15 minutes, I think he can do it well. He also would create a lot of [offensive] advantages."
This potential shift could provide the Knicks with short-term solutions and offensive flexibility. However, the long-term viability of such a strategy remains uncertain, particularly when considering the physical demands and wear on Randle.
The Role of Precious Achiuwa
Another player that could play a role in the Knicks' evolving lineup is Precious Achiuwa. Standing at 6-foot-8, Achiuwa is noted for his agility, making him a valuable asset in guarding pick-and-roll scenarios and covering large ground during defensive rotations. His capability to fill multiple roles could offer Thibodeau additional flexibility as the Knicks navigate this injury-laden season.
Looking Ahead
The Knicks' journey through the 2023-24 season is far from straightforward. The team must continuously adapt to the absence and potential reintroduction of key players while remaining competitive in a fiercely contested league. Mitchell Robinson's injuries have forced a reevaluation of strategies and personnel, making the coming months critical for the Knicks' playoff aspirations.
As December approaches, all eyes will be on Robinson's recovery and how Thibodeau manages the remaining roster to keep the Knicks in contention. Whether through versatile lineups or creative defensive schemes, the Knicks must find a way to weather the storm and capitalize on the talents of their emerging players.