3. Mitchell Robinson
Mitchell Robinson hardly played perfectly in Saturday’s open practice, but Monday’s game against opposing competition proved otherwise, as he delivered a quality performance in limited time at center.
Active work around the basket highlighted Robinson’s night, with six points, seven rebounds and one block in just 16 minutes. It felt like a continuation of his Summer League output and never with questions of a fit against bigger, stronger competition, even if this was just the preseason.
Robinson even collided with Wizards forward Markieff Morris, who was ejected after two technical fouls, that happened via verbal sparring with New York’s second-round pick.
In a veteran-esque move, Robinson even backed off after the first technical foul, since Morris continued to shout trash talk, and let the ejection transpire. Keeping composure allowed him to remain in the game and garner experience.
Robinson can still use a G League stint before the New York Knicks throw him into the fire, due to no collegiate experience and an underdeveloped frame. However, if performances like this continue, he may open the season as Enes Kanter’s backup.