The New York Knicks have been navigating a tricky start to the season without the luxury of a consistent and quality backup center behind Karl-Anthony Towns. But despite this, they’ve managed to remain competitive, even pulling off a dominant 145-118 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Monday night. While Jericho Sims has stepped in admirably to fill the gaps left by injured veterans like Precious Achiuwa and Mitchell Robinson, head coach Tom Thibodeau’s recent injury updates suggest the Knicks could soon be getting some crucial reinforcements.
Injuries in the Paint: The Knicks’ Backup Center Dilemma
As the season has unfolded, New York has faced challenges in the frontcourt. Achiuwa, a versatile forward/center who had been expected to provide solid depth behind Towns, has missed the start of the regular season due to a lingering hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Mitchell Robinson, widely regarded as one of the best defensive centers in the league, has been sidelined with an ankle injury, initially expected to keep him out until the new year.
This has forced Thibodeau and his staff to get creative, with Sims stepping in to eat up minutes at center. While Sims has been a serviceable option, he’s not the same type of defensive presence that Robinson brings, and his limitations have been exposed at times. Achiuwa, despite being undersized for the center position, offers a solid backup when healthy, with the ability to help when Sims runs into foul trouble or needs a breather.
Hope on the Horizon: Progress on Injuries
But the good news is that help could be on the way sooner than expected.
Thibodeau shared an encouraging update on Achiuwa following the Knicks’ win over the Nuggets, noting that the 6’8″ forward is “doing pretty much everything now” in his recovery. Achiuwa, who has been working through his hamstring injury, has made significant strides in recent weeks. He’s now cleared for contact, which means his return to the lineup is getting closer.
“Precious is doing pretty much everything now,” Thibodeau said. “He’s gotten some contact. He’s at the next step. He’s getting close.”
That’s music to the ears of Knicks fans, who are eager to see Achiuwa contribute to a team that is already showing plenty of promise early in the season. His ability to add depth to the center position, even as a backup, could help New York weather the storm until Robinson is fully healthy and back to form.
The Key to the Knicks’ Defensive Success: Mitchell Robinson’s Return
While Achiuwa’s return is certainly promising, it’s Robinson’s eventual comeback that will be a game-changer for the Knicks. Known as one of the best shot-blockers and rim protectors in the league, Robinson is the defensive anchor this team needs to take the next step. His presence in the paint alters shots, commands attention, and provides the type of interior defense that makes the Knicks one of the toughest teams to score against.
Thibodeau provided an update on Robinson’s progress, which, though positive, still suggests a bit more time is needed for him to rejoin the active roster.
“Mitch, just having him around, he hasn’t been cleared really to do anything other than the rehab part of it,” Thibodeau explained. “But it’s good to see he’s progressing well, also. He’s not as close as Precious is, but we’re very encouraged with both guys.”
While Robinson is still in the early stages of his recovery, the Knicks remain optimistic. His return to full health will make a huge impact on both ends of the floor, especially as New York looks to contend with the best in the East.
The Road Ahead: A More Complete Knicks Team
With both Achiuwa and Robinson inching closer to a return, the Knicks are on the verge of becoming even more formidable. While Sims has filled in admirably in the meantime, the team will benefit from having a more reliable, experienced presence in the frontcourt.
As the season progresses, the addition of these two players could be the difference-maker for the Knicks, especially as they look to solidify their position in the competitive Eastern Conference. If the team stays healthy and continues to develop its young talent, the future looks bright for a New York squad that’s already making waves early in the season.
For now, Knicks fans will have to wait a little longer, but the news is promising, and the team’s prospects are only getting brighter. Keep an eye on this squad—they may just surprise you as they get closer to full strength.
