Mitchell Robinson
AP Photo

Mitchell Robinson is one of the brightest young talents in the NBA and the New York Knicks big man was recognized for his work in Vegas.

Mitchell Robinson is everything the New York Knicks could have wanted when they drafted him in the second round in 2018. He’s a springy big man with a knack for catching lobs and blocking three-pointers.

Robinson, 21, was named to the NBA Summer League’s First Team. He was joined by Jarrett Allen of the Brooklyn Nets, Brandon Clarke of the Memphis Grizzlies, Kendrick Nunn of the Miami Heat, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker of the New Orleans Pelicans.

Robinson posted gaudy numbers in Vegas this year. He hit 29 of the 34 shots he took en route to 13.8 points, 10.3 rebounds and 3.4 blocks per game. All that production came from just over 25 minutes per game for the center from Chalmette, Louisiana.

His size and athleticism was never a question. Robinson has a knack for blocking shots and is already one of the best rim protectors in the game. Additionally, he’s making a name for himself as one of the best in the league at blocking three-pointers. In today’s three-point heavy league, that skill can’t be understated.

Robinson could be a beast in Madison Square Garden if he can continue to refine his game on both ends of the court. Adding a consistent jump shot is one of Robinson’s goals for the future.

It’s unclear how long it’s going to be before we see Robinson taking three-pointers after a pick-and-pop. But he did show improvement with his shot last season. Through his first 43 games last season, he shot 51.5% from the free-throw line. Over his final 23 games, he shot 68.1% from the charity stripe.

Knicks fans should love what they saw from Robinson this summer. It feels like this could just be the beginning for this 21-year-old.

 
NY/NJ hoops reporter (NBA/NCAA) & sports betting writer for XL Media. Never had the makings of a varsity athlete.