Report: Knicks considering starting Robinson over Hart in Game 3
The New York Knicks are strongly considering starting Mitchell Robinson over Josh Hart in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Indiana Pacers, SNY's Ian Begley reports.
The Knicks' starting lineup hasn't played to the best of its abilities throughout the playoffs. The starters are a minus-12 in the postseason and in the series against the Pacers.
Robinson has been a bright spot for New York in the playoffs with his defense and rebounding capabilities. The big man is averaging 4.1 points and 7.1 rebounds in the postseason.
Of the 7-footer's 7.1 boards per game, 3.8 come on the offensive glass. Robinson also holds a plus-2.9 rating in the postseason.
Hart has been the least effective of the Knicks' regular starters, averaging 12.3 points, 8.6 rebounds, five assists, and a steal in the playoffs.
Moving Hart to the bench would allow New York to better match up with the Pacers frontcourt duo of Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner. Robinson will pair up with fellow 7-footer Karl-Anthony Towns in the Knicks' opening lineup.
The Pacers took Games 1 and 2 on the road at Madison Square Garden and return home for Game 3 on Sunday.