The New York Knicks spent the offseason reshaping their roster and emphasizing depth under new head coach Mike Brown. Unlike former coach Tom Thibodeau, who often relied on a tight rotation, Brown has expanded the bench and leaned heavily on the team’s new additions.
Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele have quickly become valuable contributors, while Landry Shamet, Miles McBride and Josh Hart have helped stabilize the second unit. But despite their improved balance and a solid sixth place standing in the Eastern Conference, injuries have begun to pile up for New York.
Shamet was recently diagnosed with a shoulder sprain, sidelining the former Wichita State guard. OG Anunoby remains out with a hamstring injury as well. On Monday, the injury list grew again when Mitchell Robinson was ruled out with an illness. The veteran center has played an important complementary role this season alongside Karl-Anthony Towns, averaging four points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game.
In Robinson’s absence, Mike Brown is expected to adjust his frontcourt rotation. Either Josh Hart or McBride is likely to slide into the starting lineup, while Yabusele and rookie big man Ariel Hukporti should see increased minutes off the bench.
New York will look to bounce back after a loss to the Orlando Magic, and tonight’s matchup presents a good opportunity. Brooklyn has struggled mightily at home, entering the contest with an 0-7 record at Barclays Center.
Following Monday’s meeting with the Nets, the Knicks will travel to Charlotte to take on the Hornets on Wednesday before returning home to host the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday.
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