New York Knicks rookie Mitchell Robinson and Washington Wizards forward Markieff Morris collided in Monday’s preseason opener, and one player provided clarity on the situation.
The New York Knicks loaded up on rookies in the offseason with three additions: Kevin Knox, Allonzo Trier and Mitchell Robinson, the team’s second-round pick in the 2018 NBA Draft who skipped college to prepare for the Association.
Robinson showcased in the Summer League, but Monday’s preseason opener became his first test against opposing NBA competition. It happened against the Washington Wizards and turned into an eventful evening.
In the second quarter, Robinson and Wizards forward Markieff Morris traded verbal jabs which resulted in a technical foul for each player. However, the latter player continued the trash talk, resulting in another technical and an ejection—a rarity for the preseason. That’s while the former Western Kentucky commit held his hands up to signify no wrongdoing.
After the game, Morris clarified what happened but still seemed angry, according to Candace Buckner of The Washington Post. He said, “the refs overplayed it and threw me out,” among other more notable lines.
#Wizards F Markieff Morris on what led to his verbal alteraction with #Knicks rookie Mitchell Robinson:
— Candace Buckner (@CandaceDBuckner) October 2, 2018
“He’s a stupid-ass rookie. Talking too much. Obviously I didn’t like what he said and the refs overplayed it and threw me out.”
Though, Morris said he’s “supposed to be the bigger person,” thought Robinson’s words crossed the line and used the situation as a lesson.
Morris on the 2 techs
— Candace Buckner (@CandaceDBuckner) October 2, 2018
"Me & Coach talked about it and I respect that as a coach, I’m supposed to be the bigger person but what he said crossed the line as a man and I wasn’t feeling it. Regardless of the situation, I was wrong for approaching but it happens like that sometimes.”
Still, it became an unusual talking point for a preseason game and something usually saved for the regular season, when the head-to-head matchups mean more for both teams.
Robinson had a productive night otherwise, with six points, seven rebounds and one block in 16 minutes. A rim-protecting ability flashed in this limited time, and he stayed active enough to make an impact.
Head coach David Fizdale even utilized Robinson as Enes Kanter’s backup, despite speculation of a G League stint to open the season. Was Monday’s strategy a sign of the plan once Oct. 17 arrives, though?
There’s not much downtime before Robinson and Morris face off again, as the Knicks and Wizards collide on Monday, Oct. 8 for a preseason game at Madison Square Garden. Are more technical fouls on the way?
In the meantime, New York will return to the court for Wednesday’s game against the Brooklyn Nets and on Friday vs. the New Orleans Pelicans.