Mitchell Robinson already making impression on Celtics teammates

Mitchell Robinson spent years giving the Celtics problems as a member of the Knicks. Now Boston is hoping he can do the same thing to everyone else.

The veteran center joined the Celtics this offseason after helping New York win the NBA championship, giving Boston another experienced option around the basket.

Robinson’s value has never been particularly complicated. He rebounds, protects the rim and gives opponents something to think about when they drive into the paint.

He also doesn’t need the offense built around him. That should make him a useful addition to a Celtics team looking to strengthen its interior defense and rebounding.

Of course, the biggest question with Robinson has rarely involved his ability. It’s been availability.

“I love Big Mitch,” Jayson Tatum told reporters. “Hilarious guy, and he just brings a different dynamic to our team.”

Injuries have limited him throughout his career, and Boston will need to manage his workload carefully if it wants him available when the games become more important.

Still, Robinson brings something the Celtics can use. He’s a physical presence, an experienced defender and a player who knows what it takes to contribute to a championship team.

Boston didn’t bring him in to score 20 points a night. It brought him in to make life uncomfortable for the players trying to score against him.

“Mitch is a great guy to be around,” Neemias Queta said, via CelticsBlog. “He’s gonna make us a lot better.”