Mitchell Robinson took a big step in his recovery on Monday. The Knicks' big man has officially been cleared for contact, head coach Tom Thibodeau said. Robinson still hasn't been cleared for full practices just yet, however -- he'll need to get through a couple more steps before participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages with contact.

Robinson has found his name in trade rumors leading up to the deadline because he's injured so often. The center is also making $14.3 million this season. In 2023-24, he also played in just 31 games, averaging 5.6 points and 8.6 rebounds per outing. That being said, Robinson is definitely a defensive anchor for the Knicks when actually healthy.

Ian Begley: Mitchell Robinson has been cleared for contact and full practice, Tom Thibodeau says.

After the Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a blockbuster trade to acquire Luka Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis and additional pieces, their roster remains in need of significant upgrades if they hope to contend for a championship in the LeBron James era.

The New York Knicks have a decision to make with Mitchell Robinson before the 2025 NBA trade deadline. Will they make a move?

The New York Knicks have a little less than 10 days to figure out whether Mitchell Robinson will be their backup center beyond the trade deadline. Robinson, 26,

With the trade deadline looming on Thursday, decisions will need to be made whether to wait for Mitchell Robinson or to potentially swing a deal for another big man. For the first time this season, Tom Thibodeau said Saturday the injured center is “pretty close” to being cleared for full contact and to rejoin the Knicks in practice.