Hall of Famer Rick Barry believes switching to underhand free throws would help Mitchell Robinson overcome his broken finger and poor shooting.
The Knicks center broke his right pinky finger and underwent surgery, hoping to play in the Finals against either the Thunder or Spurs. The team refused to specify how the injury occurred.
Robinson's free-throw struggles are significant—he's made just 13 of 43 attempts this postseason, averaging 30.2%. Wearing a brace on his injured finger likely won't improve his shooting.
Barry shot 89.3% from the line over his 14-season career using the underhand style. The 82-year-old Hall of Famer insists the technique is "scientifically proven" superior because it's easier to control the ball and create proper arc.
"That broken finger would be nothing with the underhand free throw because all the feel and the touch comes from the other fingers," Barry said. "The pinky has nothing to do with it."
However, the NBA Finals begin Wednesday, giving Robinson only three or four days to learn the technique. Barry acknowledged the change would be unlikely but urged Robinson to ignore aesthetic concerns.
"Throw your ego in the freakin' closet," Barry said. "It's all about how often you can make it. Who cares what you look like? The style means nothing. It's the results that really matter."
Barry taught the underhand technique to his son, Canyon, who used it in G-League and international 3x3 competition.