New York Knicks: 5 players for Mitchell Robinson to study during suspended play

Alonzo Mourning

When speaking about elite defensive big men, Alonzo Mourning should be one of the first players mentioned. He thrived with multiple franchises, most notably the Charlotte Hornets and Miami Heat, and won two Defensive Player of the Year awards.

Mourning’s primary claim to fame on defense was his shot-blocking ability, but the key here is: Robinson being able to study a physical player who overcame foul trouble.

Robinson’s biggest issue to date has been his inability to stay out of foul trouble. It’s limited the number of minutes he’s been able to play, as well as his growth as a player without the necessary repetition to make the improvements he’s capable of making.

Mourning faced that same problem during his career, but the former Georgetown star managed to overcome that flaw and blossom into an all-time defender.

Mourning’s willingness to get physical on defense is one of the primary reasons he’s in the Hall of Fame. He was also a productive offensive player who could make his mark around the rim with enough of a post presence to keep a defense honest.

If Robinson can find a way to overcome foul trouble in the way Mourning was able to, then he can continue to develop into one of the best centers in the NBA.