Knicks Consider Lineup Change Ahead of Game 3 Against Pacers

INDIANAPOLIS — The New York Knicks are weighing a potential change to their starting lineup as they head into Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals on Sunday, trailing the Indiana Pacers 2-0 in the series. Coach Tom Thibodeau is considering replacing wing player Jalen Brunson with backup center Mitchell Robinson, according to sources who spoke to ESPN’s Shams Charania.

This would be the first alteration to the Knicks’ starting five during this season, which has included Hart, Randle, Barrett, and Toppin when each player is healthy. The Knicks have struggled significantly against the Pacers, with their starting lineup getting outscored by 13 points in Game 1 and 16 points in Game 2.

The Pacers have excelled, shooting 61% from the field and 52% from beyond the arc when facing the Knicks’ starters. New York’s defensive rating with their starting five is a troubling 155.1, reflecting the number of points allowed per 100 possessions. The Knicks were also outscored during the regular season from Jan. 1 to the end of the season with a plus-minus rating of minus-50, the worst in the postseason.

When asked about changing the lineup after their Game 2 loss, Thibodeau noted, ‘We always look at everything.’ The Knicks’ starters have played a league-high 914 minutes together, indicating both their trust in this group and the urgency to address the recent struggles.

Robinson could offer better defensive agility in the paint and along the perimeter, an area where the Knicks have been vulnerable against Indiana’s fast pace. ESPN Research shows the Knicks contest 52% of the Pacers’ shots with Robinson on the court compared to only 42% when he is benched.

SNY was the first to report on the potential lineup adjustment for the Knicks as they prepare for a crucial game in their playoff journey.