Knicks Defense Gets a Boost: Mitchell Robinson Emerges as a Game-Changer Transforming the Knicks Defense
The New York Knicks are 5-3 since Mitchell Robinson debuted on Feb. 28. But even the win-loss column isn’t as vital as the impact the 7-footer has made on the defensive end.
Since Robinson’s debut, the Knicks have ranked second in defensive rating (108.2), opponent points allowed (107.3) and 3P% (31.5), and seventh in opponent FG% (45.3).
Pre-Robinson, Tom Thibodeau’s men ranked 20th in defensive rating (118.8), 14th in opponent points allowed (112.9), dead last in 3P% (37.7) and 24th in opponent FG% (47.4).
The stark difference can’t be solely attributed to Robinson, given that he’s averaged only 16.1 minutes since his return. However, Thibodeau credited the shot-blocking big man as the difference maker after the Knicks’ 116-95 win over the Heat on Monday.
“He’s such a huge factor,” Thibodeau said of Robinson. “…I think the rim protection, [Robinson’s] ability to get out on the perimeter, defend pick-and-roll, challenge shots, cover a lot of ground, and make a second or third effort to be up on the pick-and-roll and then still get back to rebound and change shots.”
At specific points in the third quarter, the Knicks fielded the supersized lineup of Robinson and Karl-Anthony Towns in the front court, along with OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges on the wings. The unit stifled Miami’s offense, holding it to just 15 points through 12 minutes.
Thibs confirmed that he plans to play Robinson and KAT together regularly, even once Jalen Brunson returns from injury.
Robinson’s return has changed the fabric of the Knicks’ defense, which was heavily scrutinized earlier in the season. Some analysts felt that due to its lackluster defense, New York would struggle to compete with Boston or Cleveland in the postseason. Robinson’s arrival has likely forced naysayers to believe in the Knicks again.
