Center Mitchell Robinson fractured his right broken pinkie finger on the night before the NBA Finals, Shams Charania confirmed to ESPN Thursday. The 6‑7 rookie will miss practice and has no projected return date. Robinson contributed eight points and ten rebounds in 18 minutes during the clinching victory over Cleveland that sealed New York’s spot.

The Knicks wrapped up a four‑game sweep of the Cavaliers, earning their first Finals berth since 1999. Robinson’s playoff numbers have dipped to 5.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 0.6 blocks in 14.2 minutes, a drop from his regular‑season averages of 5.7 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in nearly 20 minutes.

New York now faces the winner of the Oklahoma City Thunder versus San Antonio Spurs Western Conference final. Without Robinson’s rim protection, the Knicks must lean on backup centers and a more perimeter‑oriented defense. Coach Tom Thibodeau will likely increase minutes for Nerlens Noel and explore small‑ball lineups to compensate.

Robinson’s absence removes a key rebounder and shot‑blocker from New York’s frontcourt, narrowing the margin against a physically imposing opponent. The injury forces the Knicks to adjust rotations ahead of Wednesday’s tip‑off, testing their depth and tactical flexibility in a series that could decide the franchise’s first championship in over two decades.