The New York Knicks' 2023-24 season has seen dramatic ups and downs, largely influenced by the stellar play and subsequent injury challenges of center Mitchell Robinson. For the first six weeks of the season, Robinson was a dominant force on both ends of the court, making a significant impact in the paint.
Robinson's prowess on the offensive glass was unmatched, as he led the NBA in offensive rebounds during that period. His role as a premier lob threat and rim protector was well-established, although there was a noted decline in his shot-blocking capability compared to earlier seasons.
However, Robinson's season took a turn for the worse when he suffered a stress fracture in his left ankle. This injury required surgery and led to an absence that spanned over three months. Unfortunately, his woes didn't end there; during the playoffs, Robinson re-injured the same ankle, necessitating another surgery. The expected timeline for his return pins him back on the court by December or January.
The Knicks were dealt another blow during free agency when they lost center Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Hartenstein had been a reliable stand-in for Robinson after his initial injury, excelling in drop coverage and as a paint defender. Thibodeau’s defensive strategies, which have emphasized minimizing rotations and keeping big men close to the basket, benefited greatly from Hartenstein's presence.
With both Robinson and Hartenstein unavailable, head coach Tom Thibodeau had to explore alternative options. Jericho Sims, despite being shorter than Robinson but taller than fellow teammate Precious Achiuwa, was named the starting center following Robinson’s original stress fracture last December. Sims brought an energetic and bouncy playing style to the floor, known for generating additional possessions and setting strong offensive screens. However, his struggles in effectively defending pick-and-rolls in drop coverage became apparent.
Exploring Versatility in the Lineup
Thibodeau’s reliance on traditional big men has been a hallmark of his coaching philosophy in New York. His preference has historically been to avoid centerless lineups. However, the circumstances have forced him to reconsider his strategies. "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."
Another potential solution lies in the versatile Precious Achiuwa. Standing at 6-foot-8, Achiuwa is celebrated for his agility and ability to cover significant ground during rotations. His competence in guarding pick-and-roll situations offers a remedy for some of the defensive gaps left by the absences of Robinson and Hartenstein.
The Path Forward
As the Knicks navigate the challenges brought on by these critical injuries, the need for adaptability and versatile contributions from their remaining players becomes paramount. Thibodeau's willingness to adjust his lineup, experiment with different roles, and maximize the existing talents will be crucial in sustaining the team's competitive edge.
With different dynamics at play, the Knicks are poised for a period of tactical evolution. Whether it's utilizing Julius Randle in short stints at center or leveraging the agility of Achiuwa, these strategic shifts will define the Knicks' resilience in the face of adversity. The return of Mitchell Robinson later in the season could potentially provide a much-needed boost, but until then, the team's adaptability and depth will undergo rigorous tests.
The road ahead may be challenging, but with Thibodeau at the helm and a roster embracing new roles and responsibilities, the Knicks have the potential to turn these setbacks into opportunities for growth and success. The landscape of the Knicks' season remains unpredictable, but their journey thus far is a testament to their determination and grit.