Knicks continue to restrict Mitchell Robinson despite easing of minute limits

Mitchell Robinson’s Playing Time in Knicks Game Against Heat

MIAMI — Mitchell Robinson’s playing time has been limited, as coach Mike Brown hasn’t fully utilized him yet.

Robinson, still managing stress on his surgically repaired ankle from the start of the season, played under 20 minutes in Monday’s close 115-113 game against the Heat.

This marks the seventh consecutive game where he didn’t surpass 20 minutes. Brown mentioned that Gershon Yabusele, the backup center, played longer than anticipated, which contributed to Robinson’s reduced minutes.

In the fourth quarter, Robinson managed to play just three minutes but achieved five points and grabbed 11 rebounds.

Brown noted, “[His minutes limit] has increased. It’s increased three times. It’s all part of load management. So it’s not necessarily a limitation. It’s a gradual process. He could have played 27 minutes, but Yabusele performed well despite getting into foul trouble early, so I opted not to put Mitch back in.”

Robinson, known for leading the league in offensive rebounds per 36 minutes, has already missed six games this season due to “load management.” It’s a curious situation, really.

Brown took responsibility for an ill-timed challenge he made during the first half of the game, which he regretted. He challenged a foul called on Josh Hart that wasn’t overturned, leaving the Knicks without a challenge for the rest of the game.

Brown admitted, “It was a bad challenge I made. I’ve got to be better. As much as I push my players to improve, I need to do the same. Not being able to use the challenge in the second half was unfortunate.” It’s always tough to reconcile those moments.

Jalen Brunson sat out his second straight game due to an ankle sprain but seems to be on the mend. During warm-ups, he moved smoothly, cutting and elevating without any obvious issues.

At this point, Brunson’s status is day-to-day.

The Knicks are set to face the Mavericks in Dallas on Wednesday. The Mavericks have just let go of team president Nico Harrison, who was instrumental in Brunson’s signing with the Knicks back in 2022.