Grizzlies 113-114 Knicks, NBA: Robinson Ready For Next Step, Says Thibodeau After New York Return

Tom Thibodeau was left impressed by Mitchell Robinson after he made his return for the New York Knicks following ankle surgery last year. (More NBA News)

Robinson finished with six points and five rebounds in 12 minutes off the bench in the Knicks' 114-113 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday. 

OG Anunoby made a 3-pointer with 5.3 seconds remaining to lift New York to victory, with the Knicks led by Jalen Brunson's 23 points to go with seven rebounds and six assists. 

Anunoby finished with 19 points and Miles McBride ended with 17 for New York, who won for the fifth time in seven games and improved to 39-20 for the season. 

But Knicks head coach Thibodeau took the time to laud Robinson's display, suggesting that the 26-year-old is ready to take the next step in his recovery. 

"The first game back, for the amount of time he's been out, I thought it was really, really good." Thibodeau said. "We've been seeing it in practice, too. So this is the next step."

Robinson's return comes as a timely boost for New York, who lost rookie Ariel Hukporti to a torn meniscus from their 110-105 win over the Philadelphia 76ers. 

Robinson, in his seventh season, averaged 5.6 points and 8.5 rebounds in 31 games in 2023-24 before he picked up his injury. 

Thibodeau said before the game that Robinson "brings a different dimension to our team", but insisted that he would not rush the center straight back into the thick of things. 

"Short stints for a while to see where he is. Been out a long time," Thibodeau said, adding: "Obviously, games are a lot different than practice.

"He's a vet, so I think he understands who he is. Just playing to your strengths. Go as hard as you can."

The Knicks return to action on Sunday, taking on the Miami Heat, who improved to 28-30 following their 120-125 victory over the Indiana Pacers.