NBA Rumors: Resurgence Of Former Top Pick Could Put Mitchell Robinson In Limbo

The New York Knicks are sorely missing the services of young center Mitchell Robinson who has missed 24 of the team’s last 28 games this NBA season.

He will miss the remainder of the season due to a broken foot, but head coach Tom Thibodeau managed to make necessary adjustments in the center slot.

One player who has been quietly carrying out that role is Nerlens Noel, the sixth overall pick of the 2013 NBA Draft.

If one looks at his numbers this season, they are hardly impressive. In 49 games, the 27-year-old has averaged only 5 points and 6.3 rebounds–numbers that are hardly eye-popping.

However, he is doing something that most are overlooking–playing good defense for Thibodeau.

With Robinson out, Noel has been tasked to step up for the Knicks. Although he may not be scoring, he is the team’s pillar on defense.

The effort is being recognized by the team, particularly Knicks teammate RJ Barrett. When asked about Robinson and Noel, he didn't mince words of praising the former.

“First of all, they’re both great,’’ Barrett said. “They’re both great. Nerlens is a great defender, really protects the rim. They both do. Honestly. And when Mitch is out there, Mitch is always catching all the lobs and getting all the putbacks and everything. We definitely miss Mitch. But we love that we love having Nerlens.’’

Knicks coach Thibodeau also credited Noel for his defensive efforts and explained that his performance is something that cannot be measured statistically.

But one thing that is for sure, Thibodeauis happy with the effort since it provides them with someone who can defend the rim and force players to change their shots.

“The impact in making people miss around the rim. He knows how to clog the rim effectively, defending the pick-and-roll at the top of the key. Just a solid player,” Thibodeau explained.

Noel signed a five-year deal worth $5 million with the Knicks. The native of Massachusetts knows he is worth more than that.

But given that there are no offers on the table, it was something that will have to do for now.

The 6-foot-11 center may be making do with what he has right now. But if he starts jacking up his scoring and other facets of his game, he could be working his way to a better deal in the coming years.