Nobody expected New York Knicks second-round pick from 2018, Michell Robinson, to be as much of a force as he was on the defensive side of the ball and his rookie season.
The young center has impressed so far in his young career, and bringing in veteran Taj Gibson will only help his development and progression into one of the league’s top big men. Robinson will likely be the starting option at center for the Knicks this year, while Gibson will act as a rotational option and mentor for the youth player.
His progression should be exponential in year two, as Mitchell primarily found himself struggling in foul trouble and biting on fake shots last season. Alleviating those concerns and establishing discipline on defense will be the goal for Mitchell Robinson this year. Also, he has been working on his offensive game as well throughout the off-season.
He’s quietly refining a three-point shot, which makes him a threat from beyond the arc, despite his efficiency from downtown being unproven. His primary usage is in the paint blocking shots and stuffing the rim with force.
This off-season, the Knicks signed four players that are over 6-foot-9. Head coach David Fizdale wants to solidify his team’s dominance in the paint and stop aggressive point guards from driving the lane.
Having quality shooters from the field is essential in the modern-day NBA, but the plethora of big men on the team may be a wayward ideology. Organizations heavily rely on the three-point shot nowadays, and having too many big men could give opposing teams more opportunities in that facet.
However, it seems as if Fizdale’s plan is focused on increasing the number of blocked shots and decreasing team efficiency from mid-range. Robinson will be a focal point in that category, which in turn will improve the Knicks’ overall production on defense and turnover percentages.
When considering Gibson’s role, his influence won’t be as much on the floor as it will be helping Robinsons develop and improve his game.
“He has a lot more to offer than what you see. He’s only scratched the surface,” Gibson said Friday, per SNY. “He’s real talented and athletic but he shows a lot more in practice. He can shoot the ball. He’s a great shot-blocker. He has so much to offer. It’s up to us to bring it out of him.”