In a crucial moment of the 2025 Eastern Conference finals, the New York Knicks are making headlines with a significant lineup change as they face a challenging 2-0 deficit against the Indiana Pacers. Head coach Tom Thibodeau has decided to promote center Mitchell Robinson into the starting five for Game 3, marking the first time this postseason he will take the court as a starter. This decision will see Josh Hart transition to a bench role, ending his streak of 140 consecutive games as a starter.
Hart expressed a positive attitude towards this adjustment, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s success over personal ambitions. “I truly feel like I’m a starter in the league. I think I played amazing this year. So, if he does [make a change] … cool,” Hart stated. He believes in the importance of sacrifice for the team, highlighting the need to maintain focus and effort regardless of individual roles.
The move comes after a series of disappointing performances from the Knicks’ starting lineup, which has struggled significantly against the Pacers. In their two games, they have been outscored by 59 points during both regular and postseason play since the beginning of January, with a sobering minus-29 during the current series against Indiana. The insertion of Robinson could provide the team with needed energy and a reshape of their tactical approach, as he and Karl-Anthony Towns combine for a notable impact on both ends of the court.
Robinson’s return has proven to be beneficial; he’s helped the Knicks dominate the boards, evidenced by their impressive recovery of missed shots while he’s on the floor. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle has acknowledged Robinson’s impact, noting his ability to create possessions and switch onto smaller players defensively.
As the Knicks look to shift the momentum of the series, Hart underscored the need for increased energy and competitiveness. He stated, “Every game of a playoff series, the intensity has to pick up… you can’t have any lapses.” With new energy and tactical adjustments, the Knicks are striving to level the series against a formidable Pacers team, hoping that this pivotal change will reignite their playoff aspirations.
This adjustment illustrates the dynamic nature of playoff basketball and the importance of strategic changes in response to challenges. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on how effectively the Knicks can harness this new lineup to alter their current trajectory in the Eastern Conference finals.