Nate Robinson: Why the Bulls' Point Guard Will Be Key in Postseason Run

A few days ago, I wrote how Nate Robinson was one the few players who has emerged for the Chicago Bulls this season despite the numerous injuries that have plagued the team.

When the Bulls signed the free-spirited point guard last summer, his contract was not guaranteed until January (per Nick Friedell of ESPN Chicago).

Needless to say, this was not the greatest display of confidence by the organization.

However, Robinson has been a solid addition to the roster as his numbers speak for themselves.

In 53 appearances off the bench, Robinson has averaged a respectable 12.0 points, 3.6 assists and 2.0 rebounds per contest.

In addition, Robinson’s numbers as a starter include 14.8 points, 6.1 assists and 2.5 rebounds per outing, which demonstrate that he can produce regardless of what role he plays on the team.

Taking an even closer look at his numbers, it should be noted that Robinson is averaging 16 points over the last 10 contests and his scoring output has increased in every month since January.

While Robinson’s numbers are an impressive part of his resume this season, another aspect about Robinson’s game that should be noted is that he does not lack confidence. He has shown the ability to provide the Bulls with scoring when it matters the most.

In the Chicago’s 92-90 win over the Brooklyn Nets on April 4, Robinson hit the game-winning jumper, enabling the Bulls to overcome a 16-point deficit and pull off one of their most impressive wins this season.

A few nights later, Robinson came up big once again in an 87-86 win over the Orlando Magic on April 6. After scoring just four points through the better part of three periods, Robinson nailed a three-pointer to end the third quarter and then scored 12 points in the final frame en route to a 19-point evening.

Robinson had this to say about his fearless approach to each game per Nick Friedell:

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"I'm not afraid to fail. You're going to have to fail a lot to succeed in this game. So for me, you just can't be afraid to take that shot. You can't be afraid to miss it or make it."

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Whether you like Robinson because of his loose approach to the game, or even if he drives you crazy with his suspect shot selection in certain situations, he has proven to be a capable scorer in head coach Tom Thibodeau’s rotation.

Robinson will continue to play a major role in any success the Bulls have during the remainder of the regular season and in the playoffs as well.