Knicks Bounce Back with Key Player Returns Against Grizzlies

The New York Knicks celebrated a significant victory against the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday night, highlighted by the return of Mitchell Robinson and the impactful performance of Ariel Hukporti. The game marked Robinson's long-awaited season debut after undergoing left ankle surgery, while Hukporti recently returned from a left knee meniscus tear sustained in a previous matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Hukporti played 16 minutes in the win, showcasing his skills by shooting an impressive 4-of-5 from the field, contributing a total of eight points to the Knicks' efforts. His return comes after an extended absence due to injury, and his performance hinted at his potential impact on the team moving forward.

Robinson's return to the court was also a pivotal moment for the Knicks. In just 12 minutes off the bench, he scored six points and grabbed five rebounds. Coach Tom Thibodeau expressed optimism about Robinson's performance, stating, "The first game back, for the amount of time he's been out, I thought it was really, really good."

Robinson had been sidelined for a considerable period and was re-evaluated after four to six weeks post-surgery. Thibodeau emphasized that initially, they would manage Robinson's playing time with "short stints for a while to see where he is." This cautious approach aims to reintegrate him into the lineup while ensuring his recovery remains on track.

Robinson's average of 5.6 points and 8.5 rebounds over 31 games in the ongoing 2023-24 season reflects his importance to the team's success. His absence during the playoffs last season was felt deeply, and his return is expected to bring a new dynamic to the Knicks' gameplay. Thibodeau noted that Robinson’s contributions will likely emphasize rebounding and defense before focusing on offensive output.

On the other hand, Hukporti has demonstrated consistent performance when healthy, averaging 2.1 points and two rebounds across 25 games this season. With a career shooting percentage of 70%, his efficiency on the court remains a valuable asset for the Knicks.