Rockets rookie power forward Thomas Robinson has been under the microscope in Houston since being acquired from the Kings before the trade deadline. SportsRadio 610 interviewed Robinson on his first day in a Rockets uniform Monday.

Robinson will need to quickly transition into the Rockets system.

“When it comes to defense, it’s about being at the right place at the right time,” he said. “I think the transition will be a little bit easier, because I know how their system works.”

Robinson is looking forward to a successful future with the Rockets, despite being traded so early in his career.

“I felt like I had something to prove coming into the draft,” Robinson said. “I didn’t get a chance to show that. I’ve got a second chance here, and I’ve got a long career ahead of me.”

Inserted into a different city with a different locker room, coach, teammates, fans and atmosphere with the Rockets, the chance at experiencing the playoffs his first season in the NBA has his attention.

“The fact that we are in the hunt for the playoffs makes everything more intense around here,” he said. “The games, the practices, the preparation, everything is more intense because of the fact that we’re trying to keep a spot for the playoffs.”

The Rockets already have big stars in place with Jeremy Lin and James Harden. Immediate chemistry will be vital if the Rockets are going to have a successful postseason run.

“They all want to win, and that’s the main thing. So, when you all want to win, you’re going to play together.”

Robinson is already showing his coaches and teammates that he has character, drive and a clear head – some of the intangibles needed for him to be successful with the Rockets.

Robinson will make his Rockets debut at the Toyota Center on Wednesday as they face the Milwaukee Bucks at 7 p.m. CST.

By: Chris Liem Huynh