The New York Knicks await their NBA Finals opponent as the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs are dueling in the Western Conference Finals. The Knicks were able to take care of business against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals, winning the series 4-0. 

The Knicks cruised their way to the NBA Finals, winning back-to-back series 4-0. They now run into a big issue as backup center Mitchell Robinson suffered a broken right pinky finger. The exact moment of this injury has yet to be disclosed.

Shams Charania of ESPN reported good news for the Knicks, reporting that Robinson underwent successful surgery and expects to be back for the NBA Finals. 

Mitchell Robinson has added a lot of stability in the interior for the Knicks in recent seasons. He has been one of the NBA's better offensive rebounders and has built a reputation as one of the most reliable inside centers in the league. 

In the 2025-2026 season, Robinson averaged 5.7 points per game and 8.8 rebounds. While his stats don't jump out to anyone, it's his impact on the interior that gives the Knicks a huge boost off the bench. He was tied for fourth in the league for most offensive rebounds per game in the regular season. 

In the postseason, his numbers have dipped, but he still brings that same element of stability inside for New York. The Knicks will need his presence inside against either the Thunder or the Spurs. 

Both Oklahoma City and San Antonio rely on their big men to find success. Oklahoma City's Chet Holmgren is one of the most versatile centers in the NBA. His ability to block shots and shoot the three-pointer gives the Thunder stability inside and spacing on offense. 

Isaiah Hartenstein is another center for the Thunder who brings a lot of presence on the interior with his scoring around the basket and physical play style. He would be Mitchell Robinson's matchup, and the Knicks cannot afford to miss Robinson if they face Hartenstein. 

The San Antonio Spurs play through their star player, Victor Wembanyama, who, at times, plays like he has no flaws. They also have Luke Kornet, who, like Isaiah Hartenstein, plays around the basket. Kornet is a physical center who brings defensive presence off the bench for the Spurs. 

No matter who the Knicks will play in the Finals, the series will be heavily dictated by who has more control of the interior, and having Mitchell Robinson is a big bonus off the bench, considering their potential opponents have talented big men.