Knicks Mull Lineup Change as Pacers Series Slips Away
INDIANAPOLIS – May 17, 2024 – The New York Knicks are considering a major lineup change amid their 2-0 series deficit against the Indiana Pacers, sources say.. Coach Tom Thibodeau is mulling the insertion of Mitchell Robinson into the starting five, possibly replacing Josh Hart. This potential adjustment to the Knicks’ starting lineup highlights their struggles and signals a need for strategic shifts, according to analysts.
Knicks Mull Lineup Change as Pacers Series Slips Away
INDIANAPOLIS-Facing a daunting 2-0 deficit in the Eastern Conference finals, the New York Knicks are reportedly weighing a significant adjustment to their starting lineup ahead of Sunday’s pivotal Game 3. Sources indicate that Coach Tom thibodeau is considering inserting backup center Mitchell Robinson into the starting five, possibly at the expense of wing player Josh Hart.
The Potential Shakeup
- The Move: Mitchell Robinson could replace Josh Hart in the starting lineup.
- Importance: This would be the first alteration to the Knicks’ starting five all season, assuming Hart, Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns are all available and healthy.
Did you know? The Knicks’ starters have played a league-high 914 minutes together this season. Only the 1987 Boston Celtics have led the NBA in starters’ minutes and reached the Finals.
By the Numbers: A Troubling trend
The Knicks’ struggles against the Indiana Pacers appear to be a driving force behind the potential change. The starting unit has been significantly outplayed in the first two games:
- Game 1: Outscored by 13 points.
- Game 2: Outscored by 16 points.
- Pacers’ Shooting: A blistering 61% from the field and 52% from 3-point range with New York’s starters on the floor.
- Defensive Rating: An alarming 155.1 points allowed per 100 possessions with the starters in the game.
Pro Tip: Defensive rating is a key indicator of a team’s defensive performance. A high defensive rating suggests the team is struggling to prevent opponents from scoring.
Beyond the Pacers Series
The Knicks’ starting five’s struggles aren’t limited to this series.Their overall performance has been concerning for some time. Their plus-minus rating is a postseason-worst minus-50. From Jan. 1 to the end of the regular season, the group was outscored by nine points. This trend highlights a need for adjustments beyond just reacting to the Pacers’ strengths.
Thibodeau’s Perspective
following the Game 2 defeat, Coach Thibodeau acknowledged the need for evaluation. We always look at everything,
he stated, indicating a willingness to consider changes to the lineup.
Robinson’s Potential Impact
Mitchell Robinson, who returned this season after missing the team’s first 58 games following ankle surgery, could provide a significant boost to the Knicks’ defense. He offers greater defensive mobility in the paint and along the perimeter, which could help address the Pacers’ fast-paced offense. The Knicks have struggled with the Pacers’ pace and ability to force multiple rotations per possession, which has at times exposed Towns’ footspeed.
Statistical Advantage with Robinson
According to ESPN Research, the Knicks have contested 52% of the Pacers’ shot attempts with Robinson on the floor, compared to just 42% when he is on the bench. This suggests that Robinson’s presence significantly improves the Knicks’ ability to challenge shots and disrupt the Pacers’ offensive flow.
