# Sixers-Knicks Opening Night Preview

> Knicks' Andre Drummond faces big shoes after Mitchell Robinson's departure.
- Title: Sixers-Knicks Opening Night Preview · PhillyVoice | Shortify
- Summary: Knicks' Andre Drummond faces big shoes after Mitchell Robinson's departure. Knicks' Andre Drummond aims to fill Mitchell Robinson's role in the NBA playoffs.
- Keywords: sixers, knicks, andre drummond, mitchell robinson, nba, jalen brunson, joel embiid, lebron james, jaylen brown, nfl, news, local
- Source: PhillyVoice — https://phillyvoice.com/sixers-knicks-preview-roster-depth-chart-news-analysis-nba-rumors-andre-drummond-joel-embiid-nba
- Published: 2026-10-20T09:01:00.564+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: sixers, knicks, andre drummond, mitchell robinson, nba, jalen brunson, joel embiid, lebron james, jaylen brown, nfl, news, local
## Knicks' rotation shift
Knicks replace Mitchell Robinson with Andre Drummond for the 2026-27 season.
## Drummond's challenges
Drummond faces pressure to match Robinson's offensive rebounding and rim protection.
## Drummond's strengths
Drummond excels in defense with two blocks per game and assists in the preseason.
## Embiid's impact
Embiid's defense against Jalen Brunson is critical for Sixers' playoff success.
## Knicks' ceiling
Knicks' ceiling drops without Robinson but remain contenders in Eastern Conference.
## Knicks' health concerns
Knicks face injury risks from players with long histories including Towns and Anunoby.
## Knicks' trade strategy
Knicks trade out of first round to improve internal chemistry and health.
## Sixers' potential
Sixers have high ceiling with Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid as key offensive threats.
## Knicks' playoff outlook
Knicks could face tough competition in Eastern Conference playoffs.
## Knicks' toughest opponent
Raptors are Knicks' toughest opponent in playoffs with three strong defenders.
## Knicks' anxiety
Knicks' anxiety about second apron and trade decisions affects playoff performance.
## Knicks' health plan
Knicks hire Casey Smith as VP of Sports Medicine to improve health outcomes.
## Knicks' potential repeat
Knicks could repeat as champions but face tough competition in playoffs.
## Knicks' playoff challenge
Knicks' playoff challenge includes balancing health, chemistry and competition.
## Knicks' ceiling
Knicks' ceiling drops without Robinson but remain contenders in Eastern Conference.
## Knicks' playoff outcome
Knicks could reach Eastern Conference Finals but face tough competition.
## Key takeaway

Knicks' Andre Drummond aims to fill Mitchell Robinson's role in the NBA playoffs.