Mitchell Robinson’s much-anticipated Knicks return might finally be here

CHICAGO — The Knicks are getting close to full strength.

After missing the past two games to deal with a death in the family, Miles McBride rejoined the team in Chicago and is expected to play in Friday’s game against the Bulls.

Mitchell Robinson, who has been managing a fragile ankle, practiced Thursday — his first full participation since the regular season began — and could make his debut.

According to coach Mike Brown, Robinson is a game-time decision for Friday. And while the center’s availability will likely remain a persistent story this season, Brown understands the potential.

“Mitch brings a lot to the table. Obviously, he hasn’t played in a while too. So he’s not going to be Mitch Robinson in the next five games probably, no matter when he plays or how much he plays,” Brown said. “But his length, his versatility, in terms of being able to guard one through five, his ability to offensive rebound, defensive rebound, he just brings a lot to both ends of the floor. You get a vertical threat offensively and an anchor defensively, that it’s hard to replace because he’s a special player at that position.”

Robinson hadn’t played or practiced since the third game of preseason, when he was mysteriously shut down for “left ankle injury management.” Brown has insisted there was no actual injury — just a load management plan for an ankle that required surgery nearly 18 months ago — and that’s hard to believe since he logged three preseason games before the three-week hiatus.