Mitchell Robinson is giving the New York Knicks exactly what they want to hear heading into the playoffs: confidence, control and no signs of a setback.
With New York about to open its postseason run, Robinson says he is healthy, ready and following the team’s plan.
That matters because the Knicks have carefully managed his workload all season, and his presence could swing a tight series.
James L. Edwards III of The Athletic tweeted Robinson’s message on his health and the team’s approach, writing that the center said, “I’m ready to go and doing everything by the book.”
Robinson also said the Indiana loss stayed with him and that he “used it as motivation coming into this year.”
Knicks’ Mitchell Robinson could be a playoff difference-maker
GettyMike Brown, New York Knicks
The best sign for the Knicks is not just that Robinson is available, but that they have handled him with care. ESPN lists him as GTD, and his 2025-26 line shows 5.7 points, 8.9 rebounds and a ridiculous 72.3 percent shooting mark in 19.6 minutes per game.
His recent game shows the Knicks keeping his minutes in a controlled range, including 19, 20 and 23 minutes in his last three outings before the postseason.
That caution makes sense. The Knicks know Robinson’s rim protection, rebounding and physicality are at their best when he is fresh, not overused. With New York entering its playoff opener against Atlanta, the center’s health gives the coaching staff a valuable interior option to deploy in short, forceful bursts.
Mitchell Robinson’s Glass Work Changes the Knicks
A key detail for New York is not just the return of Mitchell Robinson, but what the player actually brings on the court. Robinson is the top NBA player in offensive rebound percentage at 20.1, indicating how often he is able to give the Knicks new chances by extending their possessions, a team that already heavily relies on efficient performances from its stars.
In fact, Robinson being able to give the Knicks the equivalent of an extra 4-5 possessions per game is the sort of advantage that could definitely change the outcome of a playoff series.
Knicks Need Robinson’s Physical Edge, Not Extra Shots
GettyKnicks set to enter the Playoffs against the Hawks
The paint presence and sound are significant, as New York’s character is based on pressuring opponents by giving them those uncomfortable ball possessions.
Robinson’s stats this season depict a player whose contributions mainly come from efficiency and physical strength rather than scoring.
The Knicks have also seen that dimension before: when Robinson returned from left ankle surgery last season, Tom Thibodeau said he “brings a different dimension” and emphasized rebounds and defense first.
The Hawks game makes that particular skill set really matter. Atlanta is able to put points on the board in a flash. Hence, New York’s top strategy could be to focus on defensive stops and also make the most of offensive rebounding opportunities.
This is the main reason why Robinson is considered a great complement to a frontcourt duo of Karl-Anthony Towns and a guard unit that heavily relies on the big man’s contribution to defense.
To sum it up, he influences the game more through his control over possessions than scoring, which is something the Knicks are already very familiar with as a weapon he can use to change the course of games.
Knicks’ Mitchell Robinson Gives Health Update Right Before Playoffs