The Definitive New York Knicks Roster Breakdown: The Frontcourt
By Adam Kester
New York Knicks Frontcourt: Mitchell Robinson
The Knicks missed their big man in the playoffs. After appearing in 66 of 82 games in his rookie season and 61 of 66 games in his sophomore year, Robinson played in just 31 games out of 72 last year.
The multiple injuries last season started to become a problem, and now he has a massive year-4 where he has to prove he is a key part of the team’s core.
What We Know
I tried using those games played over the past few seasons as evidence that the “injury-prone” label is probably unfair for Robinson.
As a prospect who came into the league with incredibly raw big man fundamentals, Robinson actually exceeded expectations in his rookie season, turning in some big games and massive highlight plays.
The early-career success is probably why some people may be disappointed with the slow, incremental improvements over the last two seasons. This is still a player with a chance to be a dominant NBA rim-runner and defensive anchor.
What To Expect
Robinson made his preseason debut last week after being held out of the team’s first few games in what seemed to be a cautious approach in his recovery from injury.
Even with a recent return to the lineup, it seems fair to assume that Robinson will be the team’s opening night starter.
Almost all of Mitchell Robinson’s responsibilities come without the ball in his hands: Setting screens, rim-running, rebounding, and defending the paint.
His colossal size and athleticism have always been there and he started to translate those tools into successful, net-positive play last season.
Robinson is looking to replicate the strides he made last season and turn it into a healthy, productive season. He has some more teammates who can help him this season.
A revolving door of Elfrid Payton, Emmanuel Mudiay, Jarrett Jack, Trey Burke… he hasn’t exactly had a legitimate guard to run pick and rolls with in the past.
With the additions of Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier, averaging a double-double is not out of the question for Robinson.
He has the opportunity to catch more lobs and get open looks down low. His added weight should help him grab more rebounds in the paint. Prior to his injuries last season, Robinson was 4th in the NBA in offensive rebounds per game.
Mitchell Robinson needs to stay on the court and produce to get an extension from the Knicks front office. You can tell there is growing confidence, it’s just not all the way there yet.
Based on everything I’ve seen from Robinson going back to last year, the starting center job is his to lose. This is a kid with immense potential who is starting to figure it out.
He is still years away from his prime.