Detroit Pistons guard Duncan Robinson is enjoying the best start to a season of his NBA career, making the team’s upcoming contract decision increasingly straightforward.
Robinson currently has just $2 million of his $16 million salary guaranteed until January 10, but his performances have given Detroit plenty of reasons to guarantee the remaining amount.
According to Omari Sankofa II of the Detroit Free Press, the 32-year-old has become a key part of the Pistons’ offense, averaging a career-high 19 points through eight games.
Robinson is shooting 47.4% from the field and 47.9% from three-point range, providing Detroit with reliable perimeter scoring and helping create space for his teammates.
He has also improved his ability to draw fouls, averaging four free throw attempts per game, another career high.
“Something that I’ve definitely thought about going into this year is trying to be a little bit more tactful about getting to the line and using the way defenses are playing me aggressively – grabbing, holding and giving the refs opportunities to see it,” Robinson said. “They don’t always see it, but trying to help them see it. That’s been an area of focus for sure. Just gotta make them.”
Robinson’s increased offensive production has been particularly important with Jalen Duren sidelined, allowing the Pistons to maintain their scoring options despite the absence of one of their key players.
Detroit head coach J.B. Bickerstaff has also praised Robinson’s development, noting that opponents’ aggressive closeouts have created opportunities for him to attack the basket.
“Because he shoots it the way that he does, a lot of people overreact to him,” Bickerstaff said. “So now that gives him an opportunity to put the ball on the floor, get to the paint and draw contact, which is a great addition to his game. But you’ve seen it continue. He’s not just a one-dimensional shooter. He’s a complete offensive player because he can pass from there, he can finish from there and obviously when you get to the paint, you’re more likely to draw fouls.”
Robinson also has a $15.2 million non-guaranteed salary for next season, giving Detroit another contract decision to make.
