New York Knicks: 2018-19 End of Season Awards

Defensive Player of the year – Mitchell Robinson

Many New York Knicks fans are super high on “The Blockness Monster,” Mitchell Robinson. His defense this season was on another level, and it proved to me that Fizdale and his coaching staff can develop talent. The 21-year-old rookie averaged 7.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in only 20.6 minutes per game. His 2.4 blocks in just 20 minutes per night is an absurd number.

Robinson’s ability to block shots and keep the ball in the play is special. By doing so he was able to protect the rim, ignite fast breaks and generate offense for an offensively challenged team. What stands out is the potential underneath his lanky 7-1 frame.

Robinson showed what he can do by his ability to play defense on the perimeter and block three-pointers. Watch some of his highlight blocks against the top premier scorers in the league. It’s very impressive for someone who is so inexperienced. These are instincts that can’t be taught.

At only 21-years-old, Robinson, who did not play college ball, has the potential to be a defensive anchor in the league for years to come. With the addition of DeAndre Jordan and help from past Knicks players, Robinson can be molded into the new generation of NBA big man who protects the paint and the three-point line.