The term toxic is not the first to come to mind when describing the relationship between the Miami Heat and Duncan Robinson. Yet, it is a pretty accurate one.
Such a depiction was not the sentiment early on. Not even when Robinson was on a two-way contract and hitting the side of the backboard on 29 percent shooting from behind the three-point line.
The organization and coach Erik Spoelstra still raved about the type of shooter he would become.
Three seasons later and the Miami Heat have been showing that the support is still there. At least through words and a five-year, $90 million contract.
However, not so much through postseason actions. A fact that has placed Robinson on a mini rollercoaster of sorts:
"“From a standpoint of just wanting to feel like you have a role where you’re contributing to winning and that’s where it gets really challenging,” Robinson said on his podcast, the Long Shot. “It’s this internal mix of feeling like you’re capable and competent to contribute and perform and not necessarily whether it be getting the opportunity or feeling as if you’ve maximized the opportunities had to parlay them into further opportunities.”"
Although not malicious, could the Miami Heat’s constant shifting be harmful to Duncan Robinson’s psyche? Should they give him one more year to bounce back?
The final part of Robinson’s June quote is often overlooked because the highlight is placed on his minutes being diminished rather than what caused the deduction.
Granted, his three-point shooting ability is prolific enough to draw eyes his way and open opportunities up for his teammates. Unfortunately, when the playoffs come around and things slow down, Robinson’s defenders give him their full focus.
Thus, accentuating things the specialist does not excel at, like putting the ball on the floor or attacking the basket.
Robinson apologists will shine a light on minor analytical improvements, however, everyone watching the game can predict his drive, jump, and then pass routine when staring at an open layup. Honest watchers also know that Robinson is a human resources liability-type of handsy with his defense.
Sympathizers express excuses, but even Pat Riley and Udonis Haslem have spoken publicly—to the media and Robinson—about his need to improve on that end.
Both sides of the ball have tanked his playoff trust, which has seen his postseason time drop 1.1 minutes in 2020, 6.4 minutes in 2021, and 13.7 in 2022.
Robinson’s potential to impact the game is undeniable. But if that is relegated to just the regular season, there is really no need for him on this roster. Not with the team in win-now mode.
Not attached to that price tag. Not to collect postseason DNPs.
Though in the end there is always one redeeming quality. With the Kevin Durant and Donovan Mitchell rumors out of the way, Robinson’s contract could potentially help pull in the power forward the Heat roster needs.