Why Duncan Robinson Is The Miami Heat’s X-Factor

Duncan Robinson’s streaky playoff performances have shown why he is the Miami Heat’s X-Factor
Why Duncan Robinson Is The Miami Heat’s X-Factor
Why Duncan Robinson Is The Miami Heat’s X-Factor /
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Miami Heat forward Duncan Robinson has established himself as a player whose influence can sway the course of a game in the most decisive manner.

In other words, he is this season's X-Factor. 

This defining role becomes especially evident during the playoffs, where Robinson's performance has been instrumental to success. He found success during their two NBA Finals trips in the last four season. 

Conversely, the Heat tend to falter when Robinson struggles. 

He had a breakout season in 2020, averaging 11.7 points on 39.7 percent shooting from the arc. His contributions helped lead to a Finals appearance before losing to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games. In a Game 5 win, Robinson was the Heat’s second-leading scorer behind Jimmy Butler.

The following year he signed a five-year, $90 million contract, which was the beginning of two mediocre seasons. His production declined significantly, leading to the Heat missing the Finals both years. 

Last season Robinson saw increased minutes due to injuries to Tyler Herro and Victor Oladipo. More playing time allowed him to show glimpses of his former self, averaging 9.0 points on 44.2 percent shooting from the 3-point line. 

Robinson’s revival was key to a return trip to the Finals, where they fell to the Denver Nuggets in five games. His most notable performance was scoring 12 points in a Game 4 loss.

His spot-up shooting down the stretch has proven to have a huge impact on Miami’s success, making him their X-Factor.

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Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at anthonypasciolla36@gmail.com or follow him on Tik Tok @anthonysports_


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Anthony Pasciolla
ANTHONY PASCIOLLA

Anthony Pasciolla is a sports journalist who began covering the NBA in June 2023. A Philadelphia native, Anthony has experience covering the Philadelphia 76ers as a credentialed reporter. He has written for Miami Heat, Back In The Day Hoops, Kansas State Wildcats, and Illinois Fighting Illini on Sports Illustrated. His work also includes 76ers coverage for The Sporting News and previous stories for Athlon Sports and BasketballNews. When he’s not covering the NBA, you can find him spending time with friends and family or diving into the world of fantasy football. Follow him on X @AnthonyPasci or reach him via email at ampasciolla@gmail.com