The big man signed a three-year, $48 million deal this offseason after winning a title with the New York Knicks.
When you think of new Boston Celtics big man Mitchell Robinson, you think of a player that is very much going to play right near the basket.
After all, he's done that basically his entire career.
In eight seasons with the New York Knicks, Robinson has averaged 7.5 ppg and averaged 8.0 rebounds. He's never once taken a three-pointer in 397 career NBA games.
And I'm not saying that Robinson is going to start taking three's this year with the Celtics, but he did indicate to NBC Sports Boston that the team has him working "kinda far away from the basket." Robinson seems excited about the idea of adding more versatility to his game. He said he's working on touches and shots away from the hoop.
What would be the benefit of this?
1) It's always good to diversify your game, simply put. If you are looking for Robinson to figure out new ways to score, then adding new moves/ideas to his game is a good way to do that, obviously.
2) Historically, Robinson has been a player that stays near the hope. Obviously, that also means that his defenders have the ability to stay near the hoop too. When that happens, the lane gets clogged, making things difficult for slashers/cutters. If Robinson is able to play outside even a little bit, he'll open up the lane.
3) If he's able to run the pick-and-roll effectively, then his wide frame can likely help create more opportunities for the player with the ball in his hands.
Boston Celtics center Mitchell Robinson (4) talks to reporters during media day at Auerbach Center. David Butler II-Imagn ImagesWhat would be the question about this?
Robinson is one of the best rebounders in the league, especially on the offensive end. Do the Celtics want to take him away from the lane and his strength? His offensive rebounding is going to be a very big part of this year's team, so is that the most effective use of his skillset and minutes?
We'll have to find out exactly what head coach Joe Mazzulla is thinking as the season goes on.
What comes next for Boston?
Well, with training camp now in full swing, the Celtics are readying for the preseason opener, which is set for Oct. 8.
Boston will play four preseason contests before the regular season opener, which is Oct. 20 on the road at the Detroit Pistons.
The C's went 56-26 a year ago, earning the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs before getting bounced in the first round by Philadelphia.
