Mitchell Robinson proved decisive in the Knicks’ victory in the series against the Cavaliers.
Robinson averaged 9.8 rebounds per game – 5.8 on the offensive glass – and 2.2 blocks. Those numbers don’t convey the number of drives/rim hits he discouraged. They also don’t convey how many carries Cleveland had to commit two players to pick off Robinson on the offensive glass, which created openings and leads for New York.
Following their first-round series loss to the Atlanta Hawks in 2021, Knick coaches got together to evaluate the series and how they could improve going forward. One of their big advantages was not having a healthy Robinson that really hurt them against the Hawks. Fast forward two years later and that assessment is 100% correct.
If Robinson maintains his current level of play against Miami, the Heat are in trouble.