Photo: Peter Baba

Detroit Pistons forward Duncan Robinson faced the Miami Heat for the first time in his career on Friday night, delivering a strong performance with 18 points, five assists, and five rebounds.

As Anthony Chiang notes, Robinson expected the matchup to feel unusual, given his long tenure in Miami, but he also believes that his move to Detroit ultimately worked out in a positive way for everyone involved.

Reflecting on the trade and his years of speculation in Miami, Robinson said, “I had been in every trade rumor under the sun throughout my time, and it never happened. And I started to sort of live in this reality or this world where, maybe not reality, where I was just always going to be there … I think undoubtedly this is probably the best thing and the right thing, maybe arguably for both organizations – myself and the Heat. It doesn’t mean that I’m not grateful for my time there. But I’m really excited and thrilled for where I’m at now, and excited to be a part of this young and hungry Pistons team.”