The New York Knicks are facing challenges in the Eastern Conference Finals, trailing 2-0 against the Indiana Pacers as they prepare for Game 3 in Indianapolis. The team is considering changes to improve their chances, including potentially shifting Josh Hart to a bench role to address recent playoff difficulties.
Knicks Struggling Early in Eastern Conference Finals
After a strong start in the playoffs, including a first-round win over the Detroit Pistons and a surprising series victory against the Boston Celtics, the Knicks’ momentum has stalled. Both home games at Madison Square Garden were lost to the Pacers, putting New York at a disadvantage heading into Sunday’s Game 3 in Indianapolis.
Potential Shift in Lineup Targets Josh Hart’s Role
Guard Josh Hart has drawn criticism for his performance in the series, and the Knicks are now exploring lineup adjustments. According to SNY’s Ian Begley, the team is seriously considering moving Mitchell Robinson into the starting lineup and having Hart come off the bench for Game 3.
Hearing the Game 3 lineup change being strongly considered by the Knicks is to move Mitchell Robinson to starting lineup and have Josh Hart come off the bench.
—Ian Begley, Reporter
My man @CPTheFanchise said earlier that NYK was strongly considering a change ahead of G3. NYK starting lineup is -50 in the postseason and -29 in the Eastern Conference Finals. Indiana has a 2-0 series lead and will host the Knicks on Sunday. Based on where things stand currently, Robinson will be starting in that game.
—Ian Begley, Reporter
Josh Hart’s Career and Playoff Performance
Josh Hart, 30, is a former NCAA champion with Villanova who joined the Knicks during the 2023 season. Originally drafted by the Utah Jazz as the 30th pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, he began his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers after a trade. This season, Hart played 77 regular-season games and averaged 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, though his playoff output has declined.
Hart’s most notable postseason game came in Game 5 of the second round versus Boston, where he scored 24 points over 36 minutes, despite the team’s 127-102 loss.
Mitchell Robinson’s Addition Brings Defensive Strength
Mitchell Robinson, the Knicks’ 7-foot center and a second-round pick from 2018, has been with the team throughout his career. The move to insert him into the starting lineup aims to add size and defensive presence. Robinson averaged 5.1 points and 5.9 rebounds during the regular season, contributing 4.1 points per game in the playoffs. In Game 2, he played 29 minutes and provided solid rim protection and rebounding despite the team’s loss.
Upcoming Games and Series Outlook
Game 3 will take place Sunday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, followed by Game 4 on Tuesday. Should the Knicks extend the series, Game 5 would return to Madison Square Garden on Thursday. These next contests are crucial for New York to regain momentum and keep their hopes alive in the Eastern Conference Finals.