Mitchell Robinson’s injury history could open the door for Ariel Hukporti to earn a bigger role with the Knicks. The 7-footer is looking to prove himself after a limited, injury-shortened season.

For Ariel Hukporti, the path to more minutes with the New York Knicks may be paved by Mitchell Robinson’s ongoing injury concerns.

Robinson has developed a reputation for being injury-prone, often sidelined at pivotal moments throughout his Knicks tenure. This recurring issue could provide a valuable opportunity for Hukporti to step in as a reliable backup center.

Despite a limited sample size last season, Hukporti showed flashes of potential before a torn left meniscus cut his campaign short. In 25 games, he averaged 2.0 rebounds and 0.6 blocks in just 8.7 minutes per game — modest numbers, but enough to highlight his ability to affect the game with size and defensive presence.

Hukporti Could Be a Key Contingency Plan for Knicks Frontcourt

At 7-feet tall, Hukporti has the raw tools to become a defensive anchor in the paint. His shot-blocking instincts and rebounding upside give him a chance to climb the depth chart, especially if he can stay disciplined and avoid foul trouble — a current weakness in his game.

With Mitchell Robinson’s health status always uncertain, Hukporti’s development becomes increasingly critical for a Knicks team eyeing a deep postseason run.

The New York Knicks have picked up Ariel Hukporti’s option for the 2025–26 season. The young center will play in Summer League as he looks to earn a rotation spot under coach Mike Brown.

The New York Knicks have officially exercised their team option on Ariel Hukporti for the 2025–26 NBA season, signaling their continued interest in developing the 23-year-old center.

While the decision guarantees Hukporti another year under contract, the young big man remains behind established frontcourt talents on the depth chart. His path to regular minutes will likely depend on his performance in the upcoming NBA Summer League, where he’ll suit up for the Knicks in a pivotal stretch of development.

Known for his elite physical attributes and size, Hukporti must now demonstrate improved basketball IQ, decision-making, and NBA-level instincts to solidify a long-term role within head coach Mike Brown’s rotation.

Hukporti’s Summer League: A Crucial Opportunity

With Mitchell Robinson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Guerschon Yabusele ahead of him in the pecking order, Hukporti’s best chance to break through will be by impressing with rim protection, mobility, and offensive polish. This summer may well determine whether he carves out a meaningful role in New York’s revamped system.

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo shuts down trade rumors linking him to the New York Knicks, stating, “I love Milwaukee” during a livestream with IShowSpeed.

One of the biggest storylines in the NBA offseason revolves around Giannis Antetokounmpo and the lingering questions about his future with the Milwaukee Bucks. With ongoing uncertainty about the team’s long-term direction, speculation has swirled around a potential blockbuster move — with the New York Knicks emerging as a top rumored destination.

Knicks Trade Rumors Dismissed by Giannis

Despite the hype, Giannis has made it clear that he’s not planning a move to Madison Square Garden anytime soon. While speaking on a livestream with popular streamer IShowSpeed, the two-time NBA MVP addressed the Knicks speculation directly:

“A lot of people tried to convince me to go and play [in New York for the Knicks],” Giannis said with a laugh.

When asked whether he would stay in Milwaukee for the 2025-26 NBA season, Antetokounmpo offered a measured but telling response:

“Probably. We’ll see. I love Milwaukee.”

Knicks Still in Search of a Superstar Boost

The Knicks, who fell just short in the Eastern Conference Finals, continue to seek the right superstar to push them over the top. While Giannis may not be on the move this offseason, New York remains aggressive in its pursuit of a championship-caliber roster.