Mitchell Robinson's Fractured Finger & Game 2 Heroics
New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson sustained a fractured right pinky finger at his home during the team's off week prior to the 2026 NBA Finals. The injury occurred between the Eastern Conference finals and Game 1 of the championship series against the San Antonio Spurs. Robinson underwent surgery, was cleared to play, and appeared in Game 2 to help secure the Knicks' 105-104 victory.
Injury Details
Robinson suffered a fracture of the fifth metacarpal in his right pinky finger. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, the injury happened at Robinson's home during the Knicks' off week. Specific circumstances of the incident have not been provided by the team or player.
The center underwent surgery to repair the fracture. Multiple reports indicated that Robinson planned to play in the NBA Finals while wearing a protective brace on his right hand, pending medical clearance from the Knicks.
Status for Game 1
Robinson was listed as questionable on the Knicks' injury report before Game 1. He did not speak with reporters at NBA Finals Media Day. Videos showed Robinson participating in individual drills and shooting with his injured hand during practice. Coach Mike Brown stated he was unsure of Robinson's status before the game.
Robinson was eventually cleared and became a full participant in practice on Tuesday before Game 1. He wore a sleeve on his right hand during shooting drills and appeared to be moving without significant limitation.
Game 2 Performance
In Game 2 on June 5, 2026, at the Frost Bank Center, Robinson defended San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama on the final possession. With the Knicks leading 105-104 and 7.5 seconds remaining, Wembanyama received an inbounds pass from De'Aaron Fox and attempted a 20-foot fadeaway jumper. Robinson's defensive contest contributed to the shot hitting the side rim, securing the Knicks' victory and a 2-0 series lead.
"Two big possessions at the end of the game, we put Mitch on him. What I'm proud about more than anything else, Mitch defended him the right way."
— Coach Mike Brown on the defensive sequence
Player Background
Robinson, 28, is the longest-tenured member of the Knicks, having played for the team for eight seasons. During the regular season, he appeared in 60 games (16 starts), averaging 5.7 points (72.3% shooting), 8.8 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 19.6 minutes per game. He serves as a backup center to starter Karl-Anthony Towns.
In the 2026 postseason, Robinson averaged 5.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and shot 30.2% from the free-throw line. He stated during the playoffs that he was "fighting to get back on track" with his mental health and had taken a break from social media.