Mitchell Robinson experienced a disheartening moment during Game 3 as he held his head in his hands after an airball on a free throw. This was part of the Boston Celtics’ ongoing tactic of exploiting his poor free-throw skills. Despite holding a commanding 29-point lead in the second half, the Celtics persisted with this strategy against the New York Knicks’ backup center.
Robinson ended the game with a 4-for-12 performance from the free-throw line, contributing to the Knicks’ underwhelming 68.6% shooting percentage at the line in their 115-93 loss, which reduced their series lead to 2-1. Fans at Madison Square Garden rallied to boost Robinson’s morale as he approached the line for his fifth consecutive miss, ultimately applauding when he finally made his second shot.
“It’s a challenging mental space to be in, but mutual support is crucial,” Knicks captain Jalen Brunson commented. “Regardless of the outcome, we win and lose as one. We endure that together.” Robinson opted not to address the media post-game.
The ‘Hack-A-Shaq’ defensive strategy, made famous during Shaquille O’Neal’s career due to his own free-throw shortcomings, is disliked by many fans for the frequent game stoppages it causes. However, Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla is an advocate. He implemented it early in the game, even instructing a player to intentionally foul Robinson near mid-court with the score comfortably at 92-63 with 2:34 left in the third quarter.
“Prioritize the process over the outcomes,” Mazzulla explained. “Stick to strategies that offer the best chance to control the possession and potentially win the game.”
Despite Robinson’s proficient shooting close to the basket—an impressive 70% career field goal percentage and leading the NBA at 74.2% in the 2019-20 season—his free-throw line performance remains a weakness. His stiff posture and direct shooting style don’t favor softer shots that may have a better chance of success. His career free-throw rate is just 52%.
In the two games played in Boston, Robinson was 3-for-11, with Mazzulla hoping these misses would prompt Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau to bench him. Being one of the Knicks’ premier rebounders and defenders, Robinson was pivotal in their comebacks from 20-point deficits during Boston games. In their narrow 91-90 Game 2 victory, the Knicks outscored the Celtics by 19 points when Robinson was on court.
Thus, the Celtics benefit in his absence, compelling the Knicks to strategize on incorporating him effectively despite his free-throw flaws. Thibodeau noted, “If he makes it, he stays in. If not, adjustments are necessary. His overall impact on the game must be considered—it’s about weighing the benefits of keeping him in the lineup.”