Knicks’ backup big man ranked 26th-best center in the NBA

Knicks’ backup big man ranked 26th-best center in the NBA originally appeared on The Sporting News

New York Knicks big man Mitchell Robinson has been one of the Knicks’ most impactful players, yet he still isn’t getting his respect across the league.

Recently, The Athletic came out with a list of their Top 40 centers in the NBA. Robinson came in at No. 26 on the list, below Portland Trailblazers rookie Yang Hansen, who has yet to step foot in an NBA game.

“Yes, I’m already buying the Hansen hype. No, I don’t care if it takes a little bit for him to realize it,” Zach Harper of The Athletic wrote in his explanation for the ranking. “I’m going all in, and I believe he’s a top-25 big man right away with his skill and size.”

Hansen was drafted 16th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2025 NBA Draft, and would soon end up with the Trailblazers. In this year’s edition of Summer League, he averaged 10.8 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game in four appearances.

Robinson’s poor injury luck could be contributing to his low ranking. 

Robinson’s recent injury history has likely put a damper on his perceived value across the league. Robinson has missed significant time in each of the last two seasons, and has seen his production slip as a result. In 17 games this past season, he averaged 5.1 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game. 

Nonetheless, despite his low ranking, the Knicks still value Robinson as one of their most important pieces, and as long as he stays healthy, he should play a big role in the Knicks’ quest for a championship next season.