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<h2>The Knicks' Struggles in the Eastern Conference Finals</h2>
<p>The 2025 Eastern Conference finals have revealed the significant issues the <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nba/teams/NY/new-york-knicks/" target="_blank">New York Knicks</a> have faced with their starting lineup. The quintet of <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nba/players/2203517/jalen-brunson/">Jalen Brunson</a>, <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nba/players/2105193/josh-hart/">Josh Hart</a>, <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nba/players/2153056/mikal-bridges/">Mikal Bridges</a>, <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nba/players/2844732/og-anunoby/">OG Anunoby</a>, and <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nba/players/2152531/karl-anthony-towns/">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> had the most minutes during the regular season, totaling 940. However, their performance has considerably declined, especially in the playoffs, where they have struggled significantly.</p>
<h2>Statistics Reveal Their Downfall</h2>
<p>Throughout their 308 playoff minutes, the Knicks' starters have been outscored by 50 points, with double-digit deficits occurring in six out of their 14 playoff games. In the Eastern Conference finals specifically, this unit has been outscored by 29 points over just 43 minutes. Currently trailing the Pacers 0-2, a reevaluation of the lineup seems necessary as they seek to salvage their season.</p>
<h2>Possible Lineup Changes Ahead of Game 3</h2>
<p>As indicated by reports from Casey Powell and later confirmed by SNY's Ian Begley, a significant adjustment might be on the horizon. For Game 3, <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nba/players/2893469/mitchell-robinson/">Mitchell Robinson</a> could replace Josh Hart in the starting five. Robinson's minutes in the postseason have proven beneficial, with the Knicks outscoring their opponents by 41 points in his 273 minutes of play.</p>
<h2>Advantages of Starting Robinson</h2>
<p>There are several reasons why starting Robinson over Hart is logical:</p>
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<li>The Knicks excel in rebounding, ranking ninth in the NBA, primarily while Robinson was sidelined. With Robinson on the court, they have claimed 58.8% of available rebounds in this series.</li>
<li>Robinson’s conditioning hasn’t been optimal for a typical starter’s minutes, but starting him could allow for better overall management of his playing time.</li>
<li>Starting him prevents opposing defenses from easily exploiting him through fouls, which could lead to favorable bonus situations for the Knicks.</li>
<li>Robinson's presence could also shift defensive matchups, allowing players like Towns and Anunoby to cover more favorable opponents.</li>
<li>Bringing Hart off the bench could be strategic against a strong Pacers bench, giving him a chance to maximize his energy in those pivotal moments.</li>
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<h2>Thibodeau’s Reluctance to Change</h2>
<p>Coach Tom Thibodeau has historically relied on a small core of players, making lineup changes rare. Throughout the season, the Knicks have utilized only 12 starting lineups, the fewest in the league. However, with two home losses in a must-win series, reexamining the starting unit appears crucial as the Knicks aim to adapt effectively heading into Game 3.</p>
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