Knicks Lineup Change & Season-Saving Decision | NBA News
- Facing a potential 0-3 series hole, the New York Knicks rallied to defeat the Indiana Pacers 106-100 in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
- Coach Tom Thibodeau's decision to insert Mitchell Robinson into the starting lineup in place of Josh Hart marked a significant shift.
- Thibodeau explained the rationale behind the switch, emphasizing that it wouldn't impact either player's minutes.
The New York Knicks staved off a 0-3 series deficit against the Indiana Pacers, fueled by a pivotal lineup change orchestrated by Coach Tom Thibodeau. this strategic move, featuring Mitchell Robinson in the starting five, sparked a defensive resurgence, marking a turning point in Game 3 of the eastern Conference finals.facing a tough Pacers team,the Knicks’ comeback hinged on this critical Knicks’ comeback. Miles McBride’s impactful performance further solidified the victory, alongside the team’s defensive adjustment to counter the Pacers’ offense. News Directory 3 delivers the insights. With the series now at 2-1 following a must-win game, the Knicks have the opportunity to level the series in Game 4, and with McBride likely to see an increased role, things are looking to heat up even further. Discover what’s next …
Knicks’ Comeback: Thibodeau’s Lineup Change Sparks Pacers Victory
updated May 26, 2025
Facing a potential 0-3 series hole, the New York Knicks rallied to defeat the Indiana Pacers 106-100 in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Knicks’ comeback,fueled by strategic adjustments,now gives them a chance to even the series in Game 4.
Coach Tom Thibodeau’s decision to insert Mitchell Robinson into the starting lineup in place of Josh Hart marked a significant shift. The regular starting five had logged considerable minutes together during the season, making this lineup change a noteworthy move. Hart reportedly initiated the conversation with Thibodeau about the adjustment.
Thibodeau explained the rationale behind the switch, emphasizing that it wouldn’t impact either player’s minutes. The goal was to optimize player combinations for greater success. The Knicks’ regular starters had struggled in the first two games, posting a poor net rating.
“It really didn’t impact either guy from a minutes standpoint,” Thibodeau said. “So, to me, when Mitch was coming off the bench, he’s a starter coming off the bench. When Josh comes off the bench, he’s a starter coming off the bench.Their minutes are gonna be the same. Both guys mix and match.Both guys are pleasant with both units.”
With Robinson in the starting lineup, the Knicks’ defense improved significantly, holding Indiana to a lower points-per-possession average compared to the first two games. This defensive adjustment proved critical.
Another key moment came in the fourth quarter when Jalen Brunson picked up his fifth foul. Thibodeau’s decision to keep Brunson out and play Miles McBride proved pivotal.mcbride’s strong play helped the Knicks maintain their lead.
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged the impact of the Knicks’ defensive adjustments, noting that their better defenders made it harder for Indiana to score.
“they had a lot of their better defenders in the game in the second half, and that makes it harder,” Carlisle said. “So,you’ve got to grind defensively to get rebounds,and there’s a different element of grinding when you’re going against their better guys.”
What’s next
While starting McBride seems unlikely, expect robinson to potentially start again in Game 4. McBride’s role is also expected to increase, rewarding his Game 3 performance.