Mitchell Robinson Shines Despite Knicks’ Loss to 76ers

In a night marked by celebration for the Knicks and a commanding performance from the Philadelphia 76ers, it was Mitchell Robinson who stole the spotlight during the game, despite the final score of 116-107 in favor of the 76ers.

A Surprising Turn at the Free-Throw Line

Robinson, primarily known for his prowess on the offensive glass, made headlines by showcasing newfound free-throw shooting skills. Traditionally a liability at the charity stripe, Robinson turned heads by hitting seven out of eight free throws, a feat he hadn’t achieved in the previous 17 games combined. His career free-throw shooting percentage stands at 51.1%, but Friday’s performance significantly improved his season stats, boosting his free-throw shooting from 22.2% to 35.3%.

The Crowd’s Reaction

The Madison Square Garden crowd erupted with each successful free throw, with teammate Josh Hart remarking, “I’ve rarely seen a crowd react like that for free throws.” The excitement surrounding Robinson’s unexpected scoring stirred an electric atmosphere—even in a loss.

Overall Game Performance

Robinson’s complete stat line included:

• 21 Points
• 16 Rebounds
• 6 Offensive Boards

His contributions helped keep the Knicks competitive in a match where offensive struggles from teammates like Hart and OG Anunoby were evident. Jalen Brunson emphasized Robinson’s impact, stating, “Mitch is going to be impactful whether the ball is going for him or not.”

The Work Behind the Scenes

Robinson’s improved free-throw shooting didn’t happen overnight. He spent time with shooting coach Peter Patton just hours before the game, fine-tuning his technique. As Brunson noted, “He’s working, he’s concentrating, and you’re seeing the progress from his work.”

Looking Ahead: Changes in Strategy?

Robinson expressed hope that his performance might encourage opposing teams to rethink their strategy of sending him to the foul line. "I’m trying to stop everybody from doing that hacking," he said candidly. "The longer I’m out there, the more I help my teammates."

Game Analysis and Stats

Despite Robinson’s efforts, the Knicks fell short against the 76ers. Key takeaways from the game included:

• The Knicks struggled offensively, with inconsistent performances from various players.
• Robinson’s rebounds were crucial in maintaining possession but were not sufficient to secure a win.
• The team’s overall execution needs to improve to convert close games into victories.

For more information on player statistics and game trends, you can explore ESPN’s NBA section for up-to-date stats.

Conclusion

While the Knicks faced a disappointing defeat, the night highlighted Mitchell Robinson’s impressive growth as a player. His newfound free-throw shooting could change how teams approach him in the future, ultimately benefiting the Knicks’ overall strategy. As Robinson continues to hone his skills, his presence on the court will be critical for New York’s success this season.

For the latest Knicks updates and detailed player analysis, sign up for Inside the Knicks to stay informed on all things Knicks-related.