Mitchell Robinson has become the New York Knicks’ x-factor this postseason. His presence on the court sparks energetic defensive plays, while his rebounding skills anchor the team in crucial playoff games. Yet, as much as Robinson’s strengths shine, his free throw troubles have created both strategic opportunities and headaches for opponents and teammates alike.

Mitchell Robinson’s Defensive Impact

Robinson is widely recognized as one of the NBA’s elite rim protectors. His ability to block shots, grab offensive rebounds, and even switch onto perimeter players like Jayson Tatum is a rare skill set among big men. In Newsday’s in-depth analysis, Robinson's defensive versatility was on full display. He not only shut down the paint but even challenged key shooters in the final moments of close games. Knicks fans and analysts agree: few players can affect a game defensively the way Mitchell Robinson does.

Coach Tom Thibodeau leans on Robinson when defensive stops are needed most. Josh Hart, one of his teammates, highlighted Robinson's importance, noting, "Even if he makes one out of two [free throws], if we get five stops and they foul him five times in a row, and he makes five free throws, we’re a plus-5. We got faith in him on both sides of the court."

The Free Throw Conundrum

Despite his dominance on defense, Robinson’s struggles at the charity stripe have become a recurring theme. During the opening games against the Celtics and in the first-round series with the Pistons, opposing teams repeatedly targeted his weakness. As detailed by The Athletic, teams employed the "Hack-A-Mitch" strategy, intentionally fouling Robinson to get him off the floor or force missed free throws.

The statistics are glaring. In one postseason stretch, Robinson shot just 28% from the line, despite making nearly 70% in a small regular-season sample after returning from injury. The Celtics, aware of this tendency, exploited it, causing Thibodeau to second-guess playing Robinson during critical offensive possessions (NY Post). This tactical dilemma raises pressing questions: Should the Knicks bench their best defender late in games, or ride with him and risk empty trips at the line?

How the Knicks and Robinson Can Adapt

Robinson remains determined to unlock consistency from the stripe. According to Robinson, "I gotta get back to what I know. When I came back, I was knocking ‘em down, then started to get away from it. Just gotta lock in.” His commitment to improvement is a positive sign. However, as long as his free throw woes persist, opponents will continue to test his resolve.

For the Knicks, adapting to this challenge means more than just working with Robinson on his shooting routine. It involves strategic substitutions based on game flow and using fouls to strategically set their defense, as Thibodeau pointed out. Still, no decision is easy when Robinson’s presence makes such a dramatic difference on defense and the glass.

Conclusion: Respect and Responsibility

Mitchell Robinson’s journey through the 2025 playoffs illustrates both his profound impact and his persistent challenges. Opposing teams’ intentional fouling is, as The Athletic noted, the ultimate sign of respect for Robinson’s game-changing abilities. While there’s clear room for improvement at the free throw line, there’s no doubting Robinson’s pivotal role for the Knicks. His relentless defense and rebounding prowess are irreplaceable. As he works to overcome his free throw struggles, fans can only hope his determination paves the way for even greater postseason success.

For further insights on Robinson's performance and strategic challenges, read about the Knicks’ conundrum after the Celtics exploited his free throw woes or explore why fouling Robinson is considered a sign of respect by NBA rivals.