NBA Rumors: Could the New York Knicks play Game 4 against the Philadelphia 76ers without Mitchell Robinson?
Throughout the three games of the first round NBA playoff series between the Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks, both fan bases should be feeling a certain amount of confidence. Heading into a crucial Game 4 in Philadelphia, both teams should feel like they have a strong chance to win this series. However, with a 2-1 lead in the series, the Knicks are clearly in control.
But that could all change in one game. However, New York is expected to continue holding off the Sixers in Game 4, so they may have to win without mainstay Mitchell Robinson. After injuring his ankle and not returning in Game 3, Robinson was reportedly wearing walking boots. After the match.
It's too early to tell if Robinson will be ready for Game 4, but things don't seem to be heading in the right direction regarding his availability.
For a team already short on frontcourt with Julius Randle out for the season with an injury, this is not a loss the Knicks have to overcome at this point in the season. Robinson had his hands full against Joel Embiid, but he helped take some pressure off starting center Isaiah Hartenstein.
But if Robinson ends up missing a game, or for longer, the team will likely have to rely on Precious Achiuwa as Hartenstein's backup. Achiuwa played 10 minutes in Game 3 against the Knicks following Robinson's injury, but did not play in the first two games of the series.
The situation is expected to change dramatically if Robinson misses Game 4. Through three games in the series, Robinson averaged four points and eight rebounds on 50 percent shooting from the field, playing 20 minutes per game.
That being said, there are no excuses at this point in the season. The Knicks are still favored to win this series heading into a crucial Game 4 that could be a turning point for both the Sixers and Knicks.
Heading into Game 4, the Knicks will be looking to land a knockout punch on the Sixers, while Philadelphia will be looking to tie the series before returning to the Big Apple.