Cavaliers Employ 'Hack-a-Mitch' Strategy Against Knicks' Robinson

The Cleveland Cavaliers implemented a "Hack-a-Mitch" strategy against New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson during Games 1 and 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The tactic aimed to exploit Robinson's free-throw shooting struggles.

In Game 1, Robinson attempted eight free throws, converting two. Despite the Cavaliers' strategy, the Knicks secured a 115-104 victory. Robinson did not play in the fourth quarter of Game 1. Cleveland continued the strategy in Game 2, sending Robinson to the line four times in nine first-half minutes; he missed all four attempts.

Robinson holds a career free-throw percentage of 50.8%. His free-throw accuracy dropped to 40.8% during the recent regular season. In the 2026 postseason, his free-throw percentage stands at 35.1%.

During Game 2's first half, Robinson played nine minutes, contributing two points, four rebounds, and one block. He went 1-for-1 from the field and 0-for-4 from the free-throw line.