Mitchell Robinson ready to do Knicks dirty work vs. Pistons

Mitchell Robinson didn’t shy away or mince words.He knows exactly what’s in store for the Knicks’ first-round series against the Pistons. And, importantly, his role in all of it. “It’s going to be a dirty series,” Robinson said after practice Thursday.

“We’re going to get out there and fight.That’s the biggest part about it.

Physicality with Detroit and us.It’s something we just have to bring.” The Pistons, who enjoyed a dramatic turnaround this year after winning an NBA-worst 14 games last year, have developed a reputation as one of the league’s more physical and tough teams.

Much of that stems from big men Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart.Robinson is set to battle inside with both. Stewart in particular has emerged as a notorious instigator and rabble-rouser, never shying away from a fight and constantly toeing the line between playing hard and playing dirty.

He was suspended two games earlier this year for his role in a brawl between the Pistons and Timberwolves.His four flagrant fouls were tied for second most in the league, and his 14 technical fouls were third most.

He was ejected from three games, tied for the most in the league. It’s not hard to envision Stewart throwing an elbow or shoulder into Robinson or Karl-Anthony Towns and trying to drag them into the mud or get under their skin.And the Knicks’ lack of depth has been a talking point all season — they can ill afford to lose anyone to a silly ejection or suspension. “Just be smart,” Robinson said of combatting Stewart’s antics.

“That’s really all it is.Be physical, be smart and play basketball.” That goes both ways — Pistons coach J.B.

Bickerstaff has cautioned his team, and especially Stewart, about not letting their style of play end up costing them. “It’s important for us to be physical but not emotional,” Bickerstaff said Thursday on SiriusXM NBA radio with Frank Isola and Brian Scalabrine.“I think that’s the difference.

We’re go...