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Knicks officially lose promising young center for remainder of playoffs

By Jordanna Clark

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 05: Head coach Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks looks on in the second quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on April 05, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 05: Head coach Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks looks on in the second quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on April 05, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /
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The morning after Julius Randle reinjured his left ankle in the New York Knicks’ Game 5 series win over the Cavaliers, fans got more discouraging injury news.

The good news is that Mitchell Robinson played out of his mind in the first-round series, and Isaiah Hartenstein continued to be a solid backup. Both gave Jarrett Allen a fit down low, especially Mitch, who Allen will be seeing in his nightmares.

The bad news is that Jericho Sims, who was listed on the injury report as out for Games 3-5, underwent surgery on Wednesday on his right shoulder and is now officially out for the remainder of the playoffs. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Sims’ shoulder “will require five months of recovery and rehabilitation” but that he’s expected to be back in time for training camp in September.

Knicks center Jericho Sims undergoes surgery on right shoulder

Jericho Sims last played on April 7 in New York’s 113-105 win over New Orleans. He posted six points and eight rebounds in 29 minutes. The 24-year-old finishes his first year on a standard deal averaging 3.4 points and 4.7 rebounds in 52 regular season games that included 16 starts.

With Julius Randle’s uncertain status for the second round, the Knicks will need Mitchell Robinson and Isaiah Hartenstein to continue to be at their best. If Randle’s able to play, maybe Tom Thibodeau will opt to run him at the five if needed. It should be noted that Robinson’s done well at staying out of foul trouble this season.

Hartenstein is New York’s Ironman as he played in all 82 regular season games. He and Robinson’s good health will be imperative as the Knicks move on to the second round to play the Heat. Be prepared to see some physical 90s-style basketball!

Here’s to hoping that Jericho Sims has a successful recovery and will be ready to go as Woj reported for his third season in the league.

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