Knicks' Mitchell Robinson OK with coming off the bench

Knicks center Mitchell Robinson won’t complain if he continues come off the bench, with Tom Thibodeau currently opting to start Nerlens Noel over the 22-year-old, Marc Berman of the New York Post writes.

Noel, who signed with the Knicks last month, recorded 10 points and eight rebounds in 25 minutes on Friday. Robinson started just seven of the Knicks' 61 games last season, although many thought he’d crack the starting lineup entering this campaign.

“It is what it is,” Robinson said. “I’m going to go out there and play hard. I really don’t mind starting or don’t mind not starting. I don’t have hurt feelings. I’m just going to go out there and just be the best me.”

Robinson averaged 9.7 points, seven rebounds and two blocks in 23.1 minutes per game last season. Upon being asked if he truly cares about coming off the bench, he gave a clear response.

“Not really. As long as I can go out there and help my teammates I really don’t care if I start or not,” he said. “It’s early. I’m not going to sit down and pout about it. I’m not going to make a problem or whatever. As long as I get to play, I’m fine with that.”

There’s more from the Atlantic Division:

• The Raptors plan to utilize Chris Boucher as the first big man off the bench in most games this season, head coach Nick Nurse said, as relayed by Josh Lewenberg of TSN Sports (Twitter link). Boucher had nine points, four rebounds and three blocks off the bench in Toronto's preseason win over Charlotte on Saturday, logging 14 minutes.
• John Hollinger of The Athletic examines the Celtics‘ upcoming season, previewing their rotation, making predictions and exploring Boston's projection entering the campaign. Boston is expected to sport the same starting lineup from last season, also adding players such as Jeff Teague and Tristan Thompson in free agency to bolster its bench.
• Raptors guard Matt Thomas displayed his versatile scoring ability against the Hornets in his first preseason action, Chris O’Leary of NBA.com writes. Thomas had 16 points and five assists in the win, shooting 5-of-9 from the floor and 4-of-7 from three-point range.