Pacers player review: Glenn Robinson III earned his keep

Next up in our player review series is Glenn Robinson III, who took advantage of his opportunity this season to show he has a place in this league.

Among the biggest surprises of the season was the emergence of Glenn Robinson III. Robinson, a hometown kid from Gary, IN, hasn’t had the smoothest of transitions from college to the NBA. But, this past season GRIII finally showed his potential as a two-way player in this league.

Glenn started the season fairly slow after flashing his promise as a rotational player in the preseason. However, once Robinson started receiving more minutes (along with an impressive showing in this year’s dunk contest) his confidence increased along with his productivity.

GRIII split time as a key sub as well as the starting shooting guard in a lineup that was among the league’s best. Although Glenn was in and out of the starting unit, his play was fairly consistent. For someone who many did not look at as a key rotational player at the start of the year, Robinson proved to be a valuable asset on both ends of the floor.

Significant Digits

39.2 percent from 3-point range

If GRIII can increase the volume while holding this percentage from long range, the Pacers have a very nice two-way player on their hands. Robinson has always looked the part of an NBA wing with above average athleticism and a sturdy frame, but if he continues to prove he can knock down jumpers, he can present problems for the rest of the league.

20.7 minutes per game

Minutes per game is a very underrated stat. Especially for a young player with so much potential like GRIII. Although Glenn started off and on, playing 20 minutes per game proves he was an important part of this team. Not only was he vital to this year’s success, he has opened up the door for even more minutes in the future.

Glenn Robinson III’s Season Summed up in One Archer GIF

If you followed the Indiana Pacers, you needed a sense of humor. Laugh so you don’t cry. And what’s funnier than Archer? Nothing. Nothing is the answer.

Sweatin’ Bullets

Sweatin’ Bullets is an 8p9s tradition started by Jonny Auping in which we offer standalone facts, observations, and commentary, often devoid of context or fairness.

• GRIII has worked himself into a key role for the Pacers moving forward.
• Robinson has Trevor Ariza like potential as a two-way player
• Not only did GRIII win this years dunk contest, but he’ll also be back for more next year…
• Glenn is on his way to a very nice contract in the upcoming years

One Key Question

Can GRIII continue to be a key role player for a good Pacers team?

The Situation: How good can GRIII be next year and in the future

Best-case Scenario: Next year, he again plays over 20 minutes per game on a good Pacers squad and continues to flash his two-way potential. How good can he be? Think Trevor Ariza or Danny Green, a 3-and-D player that can be a solid starter.

Worst-case Scenario: Robinson does not continue the growth we have seen from this past season and falls out or to the back end of the rotation. Future: Wesley Johnson. Never can fulfill his two-way potential and can only work into spot minutes.

Prediction: I expect GRIII to again be a solid contributor off the bench. Athletic and active, Robinson may never be the shooter of an Ariza or Green but could have similar impact if he continues to improve other areas of his game.