Mitchell Robinson Stats Against Pistons

Mitchell Robinson has been one of the Knicks' most consistent big men in recent seasons. While his numbers may not be as impressive as some fantasy managers would like, his defense makes him an invaluable player.

He may not be a household name, but the 7-footer is an impressive shot blocker who leads the NBA in total box-outs and box-outs per 36 minutes. While he still has work to do before he can compete against top NBA players, the Knicks could reward his efforts down the line.

Points

Mitchell Robinson has returned to practice on Wednesday after a 14-game absence due to right thumb surgery. This marks one step closer for him to returning to game action for the Knicks.

The Knicks are in a precarious situation, currently sitting at 28-40 and five games back of the Eastern Conference's final play-in berth. Robinson plays an essential role for them in not allowing easy baskets in the paint, and his defensive presence will be key to their success.

As he enters his fifth season, Robinson has evolved into the prototypical rim-running center on offense. He also remains an impressive offensive rebounder despite having been hit hard by injuries this year.

Robinson may not have the most impressive counting stats, but he leads the NBA in box-outs per game and ranks second for both offensive and defensive rebounding percentages. Additionally, he's in the top 10 in block percentage and effective field goal percentage this season.

Robinson has had a turbulent season, but his ability to produce at the highest level for the Knicks remains undiminished. His athleticism at center and on the perimeter make him an unstoppable force in New York.

Tom Thibodeau and the Knicks have increasingly relied on Robinson to alter shots without fouling, as his ability to shoot 50% or better from the field and 45% from the free-throw line has become an invaluable asset. Over his last eight games, Robinson has averaged over 30 minutes of floor time per game while recording three consecutive double-doubles while shooting 50 percent or better from the field and 45 percent or better from beyond the arc.

As the starting center for the Knicks, he'll be an important piece of their defense as Thibodeau has a reputation for not giving up easy baskets in the paint. However, he won't be playing every game this season as Thibodeau has alternated between Jericho Sims and Isaiah Hartenstein for starter duties.

Rebounds

One of Robinson's greatest assets is his ability to block shots. His 7-foot-1 frame makes him difficult for shooters and he can recover quickly, making it tougher for smaller ball handlers to make a shot.

He has only played 25 minutes per game this season, but his play has been impressive enough to earn him the starting role over Isaiah Hartenstein and Jericho Sims, both injured. During their three-game winning streak, he's been especially productive averaging 10.3 points, 12.7 rebounds and 1.0 blocks -- his best performance of the year during that stretch.

On Friday night against the Wizards, Robinson (thumb) will likely return to the rotation and could take over center position from Isaiah Hartenstein for up to 30 minutes in his first start since January 18 when he suffered a right thumb injury.

On Monday night, Robinson had one of his best performances of the year in a win against Boston. In 32 minutes, he recorded 10 points, 13 rebounds, two steals and two blocks - an integral part of New York's impressive comeback and should be rewarded for his efforts soon enough.

Robinson's comeback over the last month has been a major reason why the Knicks have been so successful this season. His rebounding and blocking prowess have been on full display, plus he's remained healthy throughout his return. At only $6.0 million per year, Robinson is an excellent value and should remain an important member of their rotation for years to come. While his lack of shooting accuracy on free throws may cause some concern, his overall play has markedly improved from his initial couple seasons in the league.

Assists

Mitchell Robinson has been an invaluable player for the Knicks this season, both defensively and as an excellent offensive rebounder. There can be no doubt about it: Robinson is one of their key players.

He also boasts an impressive shot block, earning him the reputation as one of the league's premier big men. This season he is averaging more than 1.8 blocks per game - an astonishing number for a 7-footer!

Tom Thibodeau and the Knicks' success at protecting the paint has been a major reason why they have been able to not only win games but remain competitive throughout the Eastern Conference.

Now that he has recovered from his thumb injury, Robinson should be able to return to his usual starting role on the Knicks' roster. That was certainly the case when he returned for Friday's 115-109 victory against Washington and recorded 10 points (3-5 FG), 12 rebounds, and a block in 28 minutes of action.

In addition to his defensive importance, Robinson is an impressive offensive rebounder and provides the Knicks with a vital vertical lob threat. His average of 6.9 offensive rebounds per 36 minutes is impressive for a team that often struggles to create quality looks from half court.

Robinson has emerged as a force on the offensive end, particularly in the paint. This season he is averaging more than 0.5 assists per game - an impressive number for such a big man.

With Robinson out, it will be interesting to see who Thibodeau replaces him in the starting lineup. He has been tossing around Jericho Sims and Isaiah Hartenstein recently, both players possessing great potential. No matter who starts though, Robinson will surely be missed.

Steals

Mitchell Robinson is an impressive big-time center known for his defensive abilities. His combination of elite athleticism and strength allows him to stand up against opposing big men in the paint. Furthermore, his knack for securing rebounds, which is an integral part of his game plan, and effective shooting from outside the arc have earned him widespread acclaim.

Robinson has been more of a peripheral figure on the offensive end this season, averaging only 7.3 points per game while posting impressive rebounding numbers. That hasn't diminished his fantasy value, however; he remains an excellent option for teams in need of an experienced rebounder.

Since returning from 14-game absence due to thumb surgery, Robinson has recorded three straight double-doubles and amassed four blocks and three steals in that span. The athletic big man has missed just one shot from the field (15-16 FG), but is just 1-for-6 at the free-throw line.

Robinson is currently at the top of New York's center rotation, so it can be safely assumed he'll play around 30 minutes per night during this stretch run.

Isaiah Hartenstein took over for Robinson as the starter against Boston, and has been able to capitalize on increased minutes to put together two impressive performances. Although not a three-point threat, his outside shots and floater are lethal.

The Pistons are looking to address their severe lack of shot-blockers in this draft, so they could consider taking a chance on Robinson if he falls to them early in the process. He's been an effective contributor in 72 games with the Knicks over two seasons and would provide Detroit with a tall shot-blocker for their rim defense.

Blocks

Robinson is an impressive rim defender and one of the league's premier shot blockers. Furthermore, his offensive rebounding prowess is unmatched; last season he averaged 8.6 rebounds per 36 minutes played.

He is an elite defensive player who has become a cornerstone on the Knicks' defense. His ability to stop hitters at the rim and alter their path without fouling is essential for their defensive philosophy, making him an integral part of this unit's unit.

On Monday night, he put in 28 minutes against Boston and scored 10 points (5-6 FG), grabbed 13 rebounds, blocked two shots and added two steals. He is expected to start Friday's matchup against Washington.

No matter who starts, the Knicks must find other ways to generate offense while Robinson is out. Jericho Sims and Isaiah Hartenstein have both demonstrated that they can play center position well, but Robinson remains the team's best defensive big man.

This is especially true at the rim, where he's an excellent shot blocker and creates open looks for teammates by denying space at the rim. Furthermore, he's a productive rebounder who adds to the team's offensive rating by creating more opportunities for shooters on breakaway plays. On defense, he provides vital presence as opponents try to run away from them in the paint; that's why his presence will be missed so much; in order to make up for that loss, they need to improve their own offense and shoot at higher rates to compensate.