Andre Drummond not expected to replicate Mitchell Robinson’s style at Knicks

Andre Drummond joined the reigning champion New York Knicks this summer following a stint with the Philadelphia 76ers, arriving with the distinct understanding from franchise leadership that he is not expected to replicate the playing style of departed center Mitchell Robinson.

Climbing the All-Time Rebounding Leaderboards

As a player who grew up cheering for the franchise, Drummond acknowledged the personal significance of wearing the New York jersey. Sitting at 11,513 career rebounds, the veteran pivot is closing in on Patrick Ewing’s career mark of 11,607 rebounds. Beyond Ewing, Drummond has set his sights on Dennis Rodman, who sits higher on the all-time list with 11,954 career boards. I’m going to pass Dennis Rodman. Once that’s done, I don’t want anybody to talk about it anymore. I’m pretty close to (Patrick Ewing) too […]. We’re going to get there, don’t worry, Drummond remarked regarding the upcoming milestones.

Replacing Mitchell Robinson on Your Own Terms

The Knicks signed Drummond during the offseason to offset the departure of Mitchell Robinson, who left the club for the Boston Celtics. While team management and players acknowledge that Drummond brings a different profile to the floor—specifically lacking the elite shot-blocking and relentless offensive rebounding that defined Robinson’s tenure—Jalen Brunson emphasized that the locker room values Drummond for who he is rather than who he replaces. Mitch obviously meant a tremendous amount to all of us. And I think the best part about Andre’s situation is that he’s not coming in to be Mitch, but to be himself. So we have to give him the confidence to go out there and be himself, Brunson stated.

Drummond Adds Three-Point Shooting to His Game

Recognizing that he does not offer the same rim protection as Robinson, Drummond has adapted his game over recent seasons to remain a productive contributor. The veteran center converted 35.6 percent of his three-point attempts last season, albeit on a limited volume of shots, adding a perimeter threat to his traditional interior presence. I’m still capable of grabbing a lot of rebounds. Obviously, there’s the addition of the 3-point shot, being a good pick-and-roll defender as well. And then, I’m really a good teammate in the locker room. That’s mostly what keeps me in the league, Drummond noted. During a recent outing against the Washington Wizards, the 33-year-old center contributed 8 points and 9 rebounds.

Chasing a Title Defense in New York

Having witnessed the Knicks sweep his former Philadelphia 76ers squad during the previous postseason before ultimately capturing the NBA championship, Drummond arrives in New York with aspirations of helping the team secure consecutive titles. After our series, I was telling one of my friends: ‘I think they might go all the way.’ And, sure enough, they did it, Drummond recalled. Entering his 15th professional campaign, the Mount Vernon native views the opportunity to contribute to the reigning champions as a defining moment in his career.