Knicks Analysis: Just how big is Mitchell Robinson’s impact?

Knicks: Mitchell Robinson is an elite defender

Robinson’s impact goes just beyond 2nd chance points for his teammates. He’s already grown into one of the league’s dominant defensive anchors.

Nerlens Noel is a terrific rim protector, but he doesn’t have the same speed or athleticism to switch onto the perimeter that Robinson does. This isn’t to say Robinson is someone you just throw on any player to defend, but in those dire, shot-clock-winding-down situations where frantic rotations are happening, Robinson is one of the few centers in the league who can gobble up perimeter players.

Robinson has always been a prolific shot blocker, but under Tom Thibodeau, he’s blossomed into a true defensive anchor in the middle. Robinsons’ Defensive Real +/-  (A Player’s estimated on-court impact on team performance, measured in net point differential per 100 on defensive possessions. Taking into account teammates, opponents, and additional factors.) ranks 6th among all centers, and 12th in the entire NBA. He’s already one of the best in the NBA, with plenty of room to grow.

Robinson’s improved patience and understanding of where to be on the floor has really developed in his 3rd season. NBA fans have seen his ability to block 3-point attempts with his long arms and timing since his rookie season. The potential to be a consistent defender has always been there, but it has really been unlocked under the Knicks’ new coaching staff.

Having both Mitchell Robinson and Nerlens Noel in the lineup gives the Knicks a full big-man rotation of terrific rim protectors, something that not many teams in the league have. Robinson’s influence on his teammates should be felt immediately upon his return.