Knicks center Mitchell Robinson’s injury happened away from court, per Shams Charania

As the New York Knicks prepare for Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals on Wednesday night, additional details have emerged regarding center Mitchell Robinson’s recent hand injury.

ESPN insider Shams Charania reported Tuesday on NBA Today that Robinson suffered the injury away from the court during New York’s extended break before the Finals.

The revelation comes after Robinson underwent surgery on a broken pinky finger and damage to his fifth metacarpal. Despite the injury, Charania said the veteran center remains determined to suit up for Game 1.

“I’m told Mitchell Robinson fully plans––is resolute––on playing Game 1…Knicks still must clear him for that game,” Charania said.

“What he has is a broken pinky but even more specifically damage to his fifth metacarpal and as we see him right there, no brace, no splint, nothing on that right hand.”

Robinson’s injury had become a source of speculation after Knicks coach Mike Brown revealed last week that the injury did not occur during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers and did not happen during a team practice.

Shams: "I'm told Mitchell Robinson fully plans––is resolute––on playing Game 1…Knicks still must clear him

"We see today no brace [but] he's going to need a pretty sizable brace to play

"How did this happen? Details murky

"What I do know is he hurt himself at his own home" pic.twitter.com/DAo1d2QWE9

— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) June 2, 2026

Mitchell Robinson remains on track for NBA Finals despite injury mystery

Charania provided additional clarity while acknowledging that many details remain undisclosed.

“He’s going to need to wear a brace, I’m told. A pretty sizeable one to play,” Charania said. “But how did this all happen during the Knicks offweek? That is the question… The details are murky.”

“What I do know, is that Mitchell Robinson hurt himself at his own home and so ill-opportuned time for an injury of course.”

Robinson has played an important role throughout New York’s postseason run despite primarily coming off the bench. The 28-year-old has provided rebounding, rim protection and physicality in the paint as the Knicks advanced to their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.

New York enters the championship series after sweeping the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Knicks have won 11 consecutive playoff games and are seeking their first NBA championship since 1973.

They will face the San Antonio Spurs in a rematch of the 1999 NBA Finals when Game 1 tips off Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC. Robinson’s availability could play a significant role in New York’s efforts to slow San Antonio’s frontcourt throughout the series.

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