Knicks center Robinson plans to play in NBA Finals Game 1 after pinkie surgery
Mitchell Robinson worked out at practice on Sunday with his right pinkie finger protected following surgery. Coach Mike Brown said the decision on whether Robinson can play rests with medical staff. Sources told ESPN that Robinson intends to wear a brace and play in Game 1 on Wednesday.
Usa TodayKnicks center Mitchell Robinson participated in individual drills at practice on Sunday, May 31, with his right hand protected after undergoing surgery to repair a broken pinkie finger. Coach Mike Brown told reporters after practice that Robinson remains uncertain for Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday, June 3, and that medical staff must clear him first.
Injury and recovery timeline Robinson, 28, sustained the injury during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals against Cleveland and had surgery to repair the broken right pinkie finger. He has stated he plans to play against the San Antonio Spurs while wearing a protective brace. SNY’s Ian Begley reported that Robinson is pushing to return for Game 1.
Career injury history and season performance Over eight seasons with the Knicks, Robinson has previously played through a broken right hand, a broken right thumb, a broken right foot, and multiple surgeries on a stress fracture in his left ankle. This season he appeared in 60 games, his highest total since 2021-22, and led the team in blocks while ranking second in rebounding.
Impact if Robinson is unavailable If Robinson cannot play on Wednesday, the team would place a heavier burden on Karl-Anthony Towns and would likely increase playing time for seven-footer Ariel Hukporti. Robinson’s presence has boosted the Knicks’ offensive rebounding percentage by nearly 10 points when he is on the court.
In the playoffs he is shooting 73.7 percent from the floor across 13 games off the bench and ranks fourth on the team in both blocks and rebounds.
Transparency
3 independent outlets report the same core facts. This score blends how many outlets corroborate, their editorial tier, and how closely their facts agree — it measures corroboration, not proof.
Story details
Related Stories
nypost.comUnited States Edges Senegal 3-2 in Pre-World Cup Friendly
The United States men's national team beat Senegal 3-2 on May 31 at Bank of America Stadium. The result came in the team's first match since March losses to Belgium and Portugal.
yardbarker.comRoman Reigns Defeats Jacob Fatu to Retain WWE World Heavyweight Title at Clash in Italy
WWE held its first premium live event in Italy on May 31, 2026, in Turin. Roman Reigns defeated Jacob Fatu in the main event and retained the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.
Socceroos Name 26-Player Squad for 2026 FIFA World Cup
Australia's squad includes two uncapped players and veterans Mat Ryan and Mathew Leckie, who are set to appear at a fourth World Cup. The announcement was made on 1 June 2026.