Mitchell Robinson just had his best game of the season. He finished with 11 points in the Celtics' first NBA Cup contest. He also registered four rebounds, including two on the offensive end, and a block in Boston's 125-111 win over the Chicago Bulls.
Beyond the stat sheet, Robinson set some punishing picks. That included on the first play of the game. He set a hard back screen on Caleb Wilson to free Jayson Tatum for a layup.
It was also encouraging to see the seven-foot center play with more stamina. He had an easier time running the floor. Whether Boston had the ball or he was getting back on defense, he could remain active once he got downcourt.
The former New York Knicks bruising big got his ankle inadvertently clipped by Jalen Duren in the Celtics' season opener, a 121-113 loss to the Detroit Pistons. Friday, the eight-year veteran, starting his ninth NBA campaign, was elevating more to challenge shots.
It's too early to panic about Mitchell Robinson
Yes, it has been a disappointing start to the season for him. The 28-year-old from Pensacola, Florida, has been lumbering up the court. He has set too many screens with minimal contact, failing to disrupt or dislodge defenders. He's also a much better rim protector and rebounder than he has demonstrated so far.
However, it's way too early to hit the panic button. He's five games into his tenure with the Celtics. Robinson is still getting acclimated to a new system. It is one that requires him to be far more active offensively.
Maybe they'll use him the way the Knicks did. New York regularly let him camp out in the dunker spot, where he could recharge before accumulating dunks and offensive rebounds. It's too early to pivot, though. His new team needs to see how it looks as he gets more comfortable and in better shape.
Robinson brings so much to the table. He'll help Boston be more disruptive defensively. He plays passing lanes to get deflections. He contains pick-and-rolls. The former Western Kentucky standout is a top-notch rim protector. He's the best rebounder in the NBA since joining the Association. He is also a lob threat who his new pick-and-roll partners will love.
Those skills have been on display throughout Robinson's career. They will be with the Celtics, too. His performance Friday night against the Bulls, including signs of improved conditioning, signals that he's trending in a positive direction.
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