2018 NBA Draft: Mitchell Robinson Scouting Report and Highlights

Where will Mitchell Robinson go in the draft? The Crossover’s Front Office breaks down his strengths, weaknesses and more in its in-depth scouting report.
Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire

An All-American and five-star recruit who effectively spent a year on sabbatical, Mitchell Robinson tread a winding path to the draft. He initially committed to Texas A&M, then followed Rick Stansbury to Western Kentucky, where he enrolled briefly before leaving campus, attempting and failing to transfer, and eventually choosing to take a year entirely away from competitive basketball, then entering his name in the draft. He offers immense physical potential but profiles as a total wild card.

The Crossover’s Front Office breaks down Mitchell Robinson’s strengths, weaknesses, NBA comparison and more in its in-depth scouting report.

Mitchell Robinson, C, Chalmette HS (Louisiana)

Height: 6'11" | Weight: 230 | DOB: 4/1/98 (20)
Stats (2016–17 HS): 25.7 PPG, 12.6 RPG, 6.0 BPG

Strengths

• Uncommon athletic ability, able to play above the rim and run the floor with surprising speed for someone his size. Has measured with a 7’4” wingspan and 9’3” standing reach.

• Constant threat to finish lobs and generate easy baskets. Dunks everything. Explosive off the ground. Plays hard.

• Good timing as a shot-blocker. Length and athletic ability allow him to compensate for mistakes. Nice upside as a rim protector.

• Has demonstrated some ability to shoot jumpers.

Weaknesses

• Lacks a degree of offensive skill level. Not someone you regularly throw it to on the block. Needs to add strength to more consistently impact the game.

• Questionable feel for the game. Has mental lapses and is foul-prone. Likely needs a very specific, simplified role to thrive.

• May lack the necessary footwork and lateral agility to defend in space.

• Already 20 years old, having never played against high level competition on a consistent basis. Learning curve should be steep.

• Significant questions about his off-court situation and decision to sit out a year.

Highlights

Read More

What if Mitchell Robinson had decided to play at Western Kentucky? (November 2017)

Comparison: Tyson Chandler

Placed in the right situation and role, Robinson could become a valuable defensive presence and finisher, but he has a lot to learn first.


Published
Jeremy Woo
JEREMY WOO

Jeremy Woo has covered basketball for SI since 2014, including the NBA draft and weekly Power Rankings. He is from the South Side of Chicago.