The struggling New York Knicks will receive a much-needed lift to face the Toronto Raptors tonight. This is because Mitchell Robinson returns to the court for the first time since undergoing ankle surgery in December. The 25-year-old is officially listed as questionable on the injury report. Robinson was quietly having the greatest season of his career before the injury derailed it. Averaging a career-high 10.3 rebounds, 6.2 points, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 blocks a night,.

Isaiah Hartenstein has filled in as the starting center in Robinson’s absence and performed admirably, averaging 8.2 points, 9.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.4 blocks during that stretch. According to a post, “Mitchell Robinson comes off the bench initially.”

Robinson has been absent for the team’s past 50 games due to ankle surgery, but indications suggest he is prepared to make his comeback. The 7-foot center succumbed to a fracture in his left ankle. This was during the Knicks’ loss to the Boston Celtics on the 8th of December. Despite the injury, he made an effort to continue playing in the second half before ultimately being forced to leave the game.

In the third quarter, it became apparent that Robinson was struggling with the injury, as he moved cautiously before being substituted. Despite his discomfort, he managed to contribute 10 points and eight rebounds in 19 minutes of play. However, he has worked his way through the pain to give the Knicks a final push in the playoffs.

How soon can Mitchell Robinson start?

“Mitchell is moving quite well. He just needs a little more time,” Head Coach Tom Thibodeau commented earlier this week. Thibodeau has yet to finalize a rotation for Robinson’s return, but he hinted last week that Hartenstein could remain the starter. He suggested staggering the minutes to ensure the regular starting unit also shares the court with Robinson.

Hartenstein, who replaced Robinson, has also been under a minute restriction since the All-Star break due to a persistent Achilles injury. As a result, he’s averaging 22.8 minutes per game over his last 15 outings. The Knicks are still without Julius Randle (shoulder) and OG Anunoby (elbow) due to injuries. Despite this, they currently occupy the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference, with 11 games remaining in the regular season.

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With the addition of Robinson, can the New York Knicks soar through the post-season? Or will it take the 25-year-old some more time to adjust after a 50-game absence? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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