It is becoming increasingly likely that the New York Knicks will roll out the double big lineup at least to start the season. Mitchell Robinson and Karl-Anthony Towns have shown that sharing the frontcourt has been effective through the first three preseason games, and the two have started each of the games thus far.
Knicks’ Mitchell Robinson looking forward to playing in a double big lineup
The lineup began last year, when they had Robinson take Josh Hart’s place in the starting five during the playoffs in an effort to improve the defense. While the new lineup seemed to help, they were still without a lot of depth, which led to their Eastern Conference Finals exit.
Now, the team has a lot more depth and a better overall roster, which could allow Robinson to see more time as a starter. Robinson spoke about the double big lineup and expressed excitement for it after Sunday’s practice.
“When you’re playing with two bigs, it’s going to be exciting to see,” Robinson said (h/t Posting and Toasting). “We did a little bit of it last year and we had success with it. So, we’re going to see how it goes from there.”
Having Towns and Robinson share the floor gives the Knicks tremendous size and rebounding. Robinson has long established himself as a tremendous offensive rebounder, and Towns was second in the league in rebounds per game last season.
Robinson can have a massive season
Perhaps most importantly, Robinson gives New York a defensive anchor in the paint. Towns struggled mightily to be a strong interior presence on the defensive, so having Robinson be that guy can help cover up some of Towns’ flaws on that end of the floor.
Of course, health will always remain a concern with Robinson, and it is still unclear what kind of restrictions will be placed on him when the regular season begins. However, if there is one thing that’s for certain, it is that Robinson can prove his true worth to the team by making a strong impact in the starting five.
The Knicks have two preseason games remaining before the start of the regular season. The first game of the regular season tips off on Oct. 22, and it will be at home against the Cleveland Cavaliers.