Pistons’ Duncan Robinson is getting support from old school players after avoiding a fight

When players lose their temper and get into a fight, they are often labeled as selfish. Unfortunately, those who avoid physical altercation could also get slapped with that label, depending on the situation. This professional sports paradox is often overlooked, mostly because there are few skirmishes these days. When chaos ensues, players are expected to exercise good judgment while also showing their teammates that they are behind them.

Visibly frustrated Duncan Robinson chose to leave from Riots on Monday night in between Detroit Pistons (39-13) and the Charlotte Hornets (25-29), but a lot of people are supporting his decision.

You can add a retired NBA player to the list. Vernon Maxwell, who won back-to-back championships with the Houston Rockets and also played for seven other teams during his 13-year career, understands why the Pistons wing avoided the fray.

“I respect what Duncan has done,” Maxwell said on “Run It Back” on FanDuel TV. “Stay away, Duncan. I wouldn’t have noticed unless someone brought it up. I’m fine with that. Duncan doesn’t want trouble. He’s from the suburbs.”

Robinson made a name for himself in the NBA by being an excellent 3-point shooter. He is not known for his physicality. The New Hampshire native also saw the melee get out of hand.

Vernon Maxwell “respects” what Duncan Robinson did during the Hornets-Pistons fight 🤝🤣

“Get out of the way, Duncan… I’m fine with that. Duncan doesn’t want trouble. He’s from the suburbs.”@MichelleDBeadle | @boogiecousins | @TeamLou23 | @VernonMaxwell11 pic.twitter.com/kPEDGKPFPH

— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) February 10, 2026

Once the Pistons advance Isaiah Stewart came off the bench and went to war with Miles Bridges, everyone knew that bedlam had officially arrived. Yes, Hornets center Moussa Diabate escalated the situation when he swung at Jalen Duren, but when the man they call Beef Steve enters the fray, restoring order will be difficult.

Duncan Robinson seemed to recognize this, for he turned his back on the fight and gave a look of exasperation. Hopefully Detroit understands his perspective on the matter, but if not, his 18 points in just 24 minutes of action should buy him some leeway.

Fresh off snapping Charlotte’s nine-game winning streak, the Pistons will visit the Toronto Raptors (32-22) on Wednesday. The NBA is desperate to overcome this struggle. Robinson already is.