BT began the Knicks offseason discussion by declaring that the team should move on from Mitchell Robinson after another injury plagued campaign, but Sal says he would hang on to the former second-round pick over the center that took his spot in the starting lineup.
Sal credits Isaiah Hartenstein for the job he did all year, but he says Hartenstein’s performance in game seven highlighted why Robinson is the better center to build around.
“Hey Hartenstein, what are you doing inbounding the basketball?” Sal said, fuming over the turnover by Hartenstein in the second half when the Knicks were trying to mount a comeback. “I understand all he’s been this year. He’s been terrific. But this is game seven. And whether the Knicks are depleted or not, there is no excuse - as the Knicks are starting a comeback in the third quarter - Hartenstein lazily inbounds the ball, basically giving it to the Pacers.
“This is game seven! Unacceptable. If you’re that tired, then get your ass out of the game! What are you doing? God, that was unacceptable. I’m not judging a player just off of one bad play, but that was an awful play in a big spot.”
Hartenstein finished with zero points in game seven, hardly his best game after being a revelation all season. His performance this year certainly earned himself a big contract this summer, but Sal would rather see Robinson starting on opening night next season.
“I would rather have Mitchell Robinson because I value defense, and he is the better defender,” Sal said. “I don’t think Hartenstein does enough offensively to justify making him the No. 1 center.”