New Celtics Center Mitchell Robinson Had Harsh Assessment of Debut Game vs. Pistons image
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Mitchell Robinson wasn't satisfied with his first regular-season game in a Boston Celtics uniform.
The new Celtics center made his debut against the Detroit Pistons on Monday, but he wasn't pleased with how he performed, particularly on the boards. Robinson was candid about his struggles, acknowledging that he needed to compete at a higher level.
“I got my ass kicked on the glass. I can’t have no starts like that,” Robinson said, per Gary Washburn. “It’s cool to get out there and put on that Boston jersey for the first time in a regular-season game, but overall, I still didn’t do what I needed to do. I gotta compete better. I feel like I didn’t compete at a high level that I normally do and I was kind of slow on a lot of things.”
The Celtics brought Robinson in to strengthen their interior presence, making his rebounding and physicality important parts of his role. His self-criticism suggests he knows he has more to give, even after finally getting his first regular-season opportunity in a Boston uniform.
Boston will need Robinson to make an impact on the glass as the season progresses. While his debut wasn't what he wanted, he has an opportunity to respond and show what he can bring to the Celtics' frontcourt.
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