Knicks Injuries: Is Mitchell Robinson Available in Return From All-Star Break?

The New York Knicks' primary center has not played since Jan. 18.

The New York Knicks announced that starting center Mitchell Robinson will be available to play on Friday, as the team returns from the NBA All-Star break against the Washington Wizards (7 p.m. ET, MSG). 

Robinson's last appearance, perhaps ironically, came against Washington on Jan. 18, limited to only nine minutes of action due to a finger injury. He'd miss the final 14 games before last weekend's exhibition pause, forcing the Knicks (33-27) to turn to Jericho Sims and Isaiah Hartenstein in his absence. They did manage to go 8-6 in that span, leaping into the sixth and final automatic playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with wins in five of their past six. 

Having re-upped with the Knicks on a four-year deal last offseason, Robinson is averaging 7.2 points and 8.9 rebounds in 38 games this season. He previously missed eight games in November due to a knee injury. He'll face an immediate challenge from Washington's interior, which boasts former Knicks All-Star Kristaps Porziņģis as well as rebounding threats Kyle Kuzma and Deni Avdija. 

With Robinson poised to return to the starting five (with Sims taking his spot in the interim, the Knicks' most common opening lineup is set to reunite on the Capital One Arena hardwood. When Robinson starts the game with RJ Barrett, Jalen Brunson, Quentin Grimes, and Julius Randle, the Knicks have posted a 14-8 record. 

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Geoff Magliocchetti is on Twitter @GeoffJMags

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