The New York Knicks' 2023-24 season has taken a tumultuous turn with the saga surrounding their key center, Mitchell Robinson. Once a dominant force in the paint, Robinson's journey this season encapsulates both the highs and lows of professional basketball.
Robinson's Initial Dominance
For the first six weeks of the season, Robinson was nothing short of spectacular. His prowess on both ends of the floor garnered significant attention as he led the NBA in offensive rebounds. Robinson's remarkable ability to establish himself as a premier lob threat and rim protector made him an indispensable part of the Knicks' lineup. However, while his shot-blocking capabilities had declined compared to previous seasons, his impact was unquestionable.
Injury Woes
The Knicks' fortunes took a drastic turn when Robinson suffered a stress fracture in his left ankle. The injury was severe enough to necessitate surgery, sidelining him for over three months. Just as Robinson was on the verge of making his comeback, a cruel twist of fate saw him re-injure the same ankle during the playoffs, requiring yet another surgical intervention. His expected return is penciled in for December or January, leaving a significant void in the Knicks' defense.
Hartenstein's Contribution and Departure
In Robinson’s absence, Isaiah Hartenstein stepped up admirably, filling the void with seamless efficiency. Hartenstein excelled in drop coverage and served as a solid paint defender, perfectly aligning with head coach Tom Thibodeau’s defensive philosophy, which emphasizes minimizing rotations and keeping big men around the basket. However, the Knicks' plans were further complicated when Hartenstein departed for the Oklahoma City Thunder during free agency.
Turn to Jericho Sims
Thibodeau, who historically preferred traditional big men and avoided centerless lineups, turned to Jericho Sims following Robinson's initial injury. Sims, who is shorter than Robinson but taller than forward Precious Achiuwa, brought an energetic, bouncy playing style to the court. Known for generating additional possessions and setting strong offensive screens, Sims’ performance was a mixed bag. While his effort and energy were commendable, he struggled to effectively defend pick-and-rolls in drop coverage.
Potential Solutions
With the team facing a continuing challenge at the center position, Thibodeau has acknowledged the need for versatility. "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."
The Role of Precious Achiuwa
Another potential solution lies in the skillset of Precious Achiuwa. Standing at 6-foot-8, Achiuwa is known for his agility and ability to guard in the pick-and-roll. He offers the capability to cover a significant amount of ground during defensive rotations, making him a viable option in Thibodeau’s system.
As the Knicks navigate these challenging circumstances, the focus remains on adapting and finding effective ways to manage without their star center. The resilience and versatility of the squad will be essential in weathering this storm and sustaining their competitive edge in the league.
The New York Knicks have a storied history of overcoming adversity, and the 2023-24 season is shaping up to be another test of their mettle. With ongoing adjustments and strategic decisions, the team aims to maintain its defensive integrity and continue contending in the highly competitive NBA landscape.