SAN ANTONIO — Update on Mitchell Robinson’s Injury

On Tuesday, there was a sense of optimism regarding Mitchell Robinson and his broken right little finger. While the exact nature of his injury remains a bit unclear, it has been reported that he suffered a fracture of the fifth metacarpal, which, according to ESPN, happened at home. Initially, the Knicks only stated that he underwent surgery and clarified that the injury wasn’t incurred during a game or practice.

As of now, Robinson is listed as questionable for Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The game’s set for Wednesday night at Frostbank Center, and the Knicks are holding onto hopes that he can take the court.

During a media-accessible part of practice, Robinson was seen wearing a small black wrap on his right hand. He made good catches and passes, and it appeared he was shooting without much discomfort. However, he didn’t push things too far, opting for a gentle layup instead of a dunk.

Interestingly, Robinson declined to comment on his injury or his preparations for Game 1 when approached by the media. Coach Mike Brown mentioned before practice that he was awaiting a status update from the medical team, a sentiment he reiterated over the Knicks’ previous three practice sessions.

In the Knicks’ prior victory over the Spurs in the NBA Cup Finals, Robinson was matched up against Victor Wembanyama more than any other Knicks player. With only Karl-Anthony Towns and Robinson filling the center position, the team finds itself a bit thin in that area. If Robinson is unable to play effectively, it seems likely that third-string center Ariel Hukporti will step up for more minutes.

“I’m always ready,” Hukporti said on Tuesday, clearly aware of the unpredictability of game scenarios. “You never know when you’re in the third unit. People are going to get in foul trouble; things happen on the court.”

That’s definitely a good mentality to have—but the Knicks would prefer not to put that theory to the test.