The New York Knicks' 2023-24 season has encountered significant turbulence, largely influenced by the performance and injury setbacks of their star center, Mitchell Robinson. For the first six weeks of the season, Robinson was a dominant force in the paint, making substantial contributions on both ends of the floor. A league leader in offensive rebounds, he cemented his place as a premier lob threat and rim protector, though his shot-blocking prowess had waned compared to his earlier seasons.
However, the Knicks' rhythm was disrupted when Robinson suffered a stress fracture in his left ankle, necessitating surgery and sidelining him for over three months. The timing of the injury couldn't have been worse, as the Knicks were heavily reliant on his presence for their defensive schemes and offensive setups.
Next Man Up: Isaiah Hartenstein
In Robinson's absence, Isaiah Hartenstein was expected to shoulder the load. Having joined the team amidst free agency, Hartenstein seamlessly filled in as the team's anchor in the paint. Known for his proficiency in drop coverage and solid paint defense, he quickly became an essential element of Tom Thibodeau's defensive philosophy. Thibodeau, who emphasizes minimizing rotations and keeping big men close to the basket, found a reliable performer in Hartenstein.
Hartenstein’s steady presence allowed the Knicks to maintain their defensive identity. However, just as the Knicks adapted to life without Robinson, Hartenstein departed for the Oklahoma City Thunder during free agency, leaving a void that needed immediate addressing.
Jericho Sims: The Interim Solution
Thibodeau turned to Jericho Sims as the starting center following Robinson’s injury. Sims, though shorter than Robinson, brought his own set of skills to the table. With a bouncy and energetic play style, Sims excelled at generating additional possessions and setting robust offensive screens. Despite these strengths, his struggles in defending pick-and-rolls in drop coverage became apparent, revealing a gap in the Knicks' defense.
Enter Precious Achiuwa, who, at 6-foot-8, offered agility and the ability to guard pick-and-roll scenarios while covering substantial ground during rotations. Though not a traditional big man, Achiuwa's versatility provided Thibodeau with options to experiment.
Thibodeau's Tactical Adjustments
Recognizing the need for adaptability, Thibodeau hinted at potential lineup changes. "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 suggestion indicated Thibodeau’s willingness to deviate from his traditional approach, albeit cautiously, to mitigate the impact of Robinson's absence and Hartenstein's departure.
Hope on the Horizon
The Knicks are now anticipating Robinson's return, which is expected around December or January. His comeback will be crucial in stabilizing the team's interior defense and restoring their strength in offensive rebounding. Nonetheless, Robinson's health remains a lingering concern, especially after he re-injured the same ankle during the playoffs, necessitating another surgery.
The Knicks must navigate this uncertain period with strategic adjustments and a collective effort from their roster. The blend of Sims’ energetic play, Achiuwa's defensive versatility, and potential tactical shifts involving Randle could provide a temporary solution. As the Knicks await Robinson's return, the team’s resilience and adaptive strategies will be tested in the competitive landscape of the NBA.
Ultimately, the Knicks' ability to adapt and overcome these challenges will play a pivotal role in their quest for success this season. The basketball world watches with bated breath as the team navigates this complex and testing phase, hoping that the eventual return of their star center will restore the balance and fortify their aspirations.