Mitchell Robinson takes big step in his rehab for hand fracture

Mitchell Robinson has been cleared to practice and take contact, a big step in his rehab from a fractured right hand. Robinson was expected to be sidelined for at least a month following surgery in mid February. The timetable was roughly 4-6 weeks, a source said, confirming an ESPN report.

Last month, the belief among some in the organization was that Robinson would be out closer to six weeks following his mid-February injury. If Robinson can get through a few practices without a setback, he’d likely be able to return to the court.

“Everything looks good. He’s done a lot of running on the court and that sort of thing, ball handling with the left hand,” Tom Thibodeau said after the Knicks’ loss to Philly. “Now the next phase is for him to go through practice, take contact there…... Once he clears that step he’ll be ready to go.”

Nerlens Noel has started during Robinson’s absence and played very well. Taj Gibson has backed up Noel. But the Knicks’ depth on the front line was challenged when Gibson missed time with an ankle injury.

If Robinson can return next week, it will give the Knicks’ top-ranked defense a boost.

What about Derrick Rose? The guard has been sidelined since March 2 due to health and safety protocols. The Knicks haven’t said if Rose tested positive for COVID-19. He missed the Knicks game in San Antonio on March 2 due to an inconclusive test. But the NBA cleared him to fly home with the Knicks. So it was a bit strange when Rose was unable to play in the following game.

The Knicks (20-21) have missed Rose’s scoring.

“He’s feeling a lot better,” Thibodeau said. “….There’s protocols that we have to go through. As soon as he can get back on the court, we’ll let everyone know. But you’ve just got to follow the protocol."

Thibs values Frank

Frank Ntilikina has struggled with his shot over New York’s last four games. He went scoreless against Brooklyn and Philadelphia.

Even with his offensive struggles, Thibodeau still sees value in what Ntilikna brings on defense.

“His defense is his strength. And we need it,” the coach said Tuesday. “And he can guard multiple positions. He can play well without shooting well. For us, we just want him taking the right shots. As long as his shot preparation is good and he shoots it well, you’re going to make some, you’re going to miss some. But we’ve got a lot of confidence in him.”