The New York Knicks will be short-handed when they open the 2025–26 NBA season Wednesday night against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
According to Shams Charania, center Mitchell Robinson and forward Josh Hart have both been ruled out for the game at Madison Square Garden (7 p.m. ET, ESPN).
Robinson, who appeared in just 17 games last season, continues to work his way back to full health. The 27-year-old has been limited throughout training camp, and the team has not provided a timetable for his return.
Hart’s absence comes as a blow to New York’s rotation. The 30-year-old forward was one of the Knicks’ most consistent performers last season, averaging 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists across 77 games while shooting 52.5 percent from the field.
With both starters sidelined, head coach Mike Brown will likely turn to Karl-Anthony Towns at center and OG Anunoby or Mikal Bridges to absorb additional minutes on the wing. Jordan Clarkson, acquired in the offseason, could also play a larger role off the bench as New York adjusts its rotation.
Robinson’s absence leaves the team without its best rim protector against Cleveland’s frontcourt of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
Hart, known for his rebounding and versatility, was instrumental during last year’s playoff run. He averaged 11.6 points and 8.8 rebounds in 18 postseason appearances, often taking on top perimeter assignments.
The Cavaliers, led by Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, will look to capitalize on New York’s short rotation in their season debut. Cleveland enters the season with a healthy lineup and added Lonzo Ball to strengthen its backcourt depth.
New York’s next test will come Friday against the Boston Celtics, but the immediate focus is finding lineup stability without two key contributors.
For the Knicks, Wednesday’s opener marks the start of a new era under Brown, who takes over full-time after last year’s Eastern Conference Finals appearance.
