NBA Draft 2018 Prospect Watch: Mitchell Robinson

Fit with the Bucks

When it comes to Robinson’s theoretical fit with the Bucks, there are plenty of questions to be raised about why that would be a good idea for the team with where the franchise stands today.

The biggest of those questions would be if the Bucks can truly afford to take on a long-term project while simultaneously having to capitalize on the window that’s currently open with superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Through a variety of factors, the Bucks’ recent history of first round selections haven’t gone according to plan, even if the majority of them were deemed projects rather than being able to produce out of the gate (Jabari Parker would be the exception, if his two ACL injuries didn’t occur).

Robinson would undoubtedly add to that long line of prospects and it’s fair to wonder if the time has passed on taking a player that requires that much development and commitment, despite the raw upside he possesses.

And for as much as the team’s long-term starting center still remains an open question, Thon Maker‘s performance in the Bucks’ playoff series against the Boston Celtics this season showed just why it may be too soon to give up on him, considering he’s far from a finished product in his own right.

It’s also hard to overlook all of the concerns that have been raised over the last year that have led to Robinson becoming the enigma he seemingly has become in the lead up to the draft.

Next: NBA Draft 2018 Prospect Watch: Kevin Knox II

Simply put, it would be quite the gamble for the Bucks to pull the trigger to select Robinson should he be available by the time they’re on the clock at 17 for all the reasons listed above. At this critical juncture for the franchise and considering their team needs as well as where the game is going, it’s a gamble they clearly can’t take in the draft once more.