Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau praises Mitchell Robinson's growth
Knicks center Mitchell Robinson dunks in overtime against the Charlotte Hornets in an NBA basketball game at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022. Credit: Kathleen Malone-Van Dyke
MILWAUKEE — After blocking six shots against Charlotte on Wednesday night, Mitchell Robinson tweeted, “ITS A … BLOCK PARTY!!!!! HOSTED BY MITCHELL ROBINSON YOU HEARD ME!!!!!”
Entering the Knicks' game against the Bucks on Friday night, he had reason to be excited, ranking second in the NBA in blocked shots per game. And opposing him was Brook Lopez, who was No. 1 with 4.3 per game compared to Robinson’s 3.3.
But even if he's only second best right now, Robinson has shown growth in his game.
“I think in general the big thing is he was always able to get by with his athleticism,” coach Tom Thibodeau said. “Obviously, it’s a great attribute. I think now he has a clearer understanding. He anticipates. He’s played against these teams several times now. He understands the tendencies of the players and teams. I think he understands what we’re trying to do. He’s communicating. He’s the eyes of the defense. He’s the back line. So he’s done a terrific job for us.
"I think he’s grown. Summer was very productive, fall was very productive. Health I think was the big thing. So he’s put a lot of work in. He gets there early, staying late, he’s studying. It’s all been a process for him coming into the league with no college background, just building and learning through his experiences.”
Point taken
Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer, like most who have faced or prepared for the Knicks, has seen a difference in the team and attributes it to the arrival of Jalen Brunson.
"I think Brunson, he's a really heady point guard, a guy that gives you scoring, passing, toughness,” Budenholzer said. “He's just a winner, it feels like. Brunson is just a guy that can make tough shots, makes tough baskets. His footwork in the paint is unique and special, and he just understands the game. He's just brought a little bit of confidence and understanding of winning at the point guard spot."
Grimes still sidelined
Quentin Grimes worked out as usual before the game but remained sidelined. He still has not played in a regular-season game with what the team calls a sore left foot.
“We’ll see. Just be patient,” Thibodeau said. “And then once he gets contact, see how he feels the next day and then we’ll work him in.”
Steve Popper covers the Knicks for Newsday. He has spent nearly three decades covering the Knicks and the NBA, along with just about every sports team in the New York metropolitan area.
