With their backs against the wall after dropping the first two games of the Eastern Conference Finals on their home court, the New York Knicks are facing mounting pressure to make adjustments before Game 3 on Sunday night.
According to Stefan Bondy of The New York Post, head coach Tom Thibodeau may consider changes to the starting lineup to regain control of the series.
One focal point of discussion is the usage of Karl-Anthony Towns, who logged only 28 minutes in Game 2 as Indiana effectively targeted his weaknesses on the defensive end.
Meanwhile, Mitchell Robinson, coming off the bench, made a notable impact, particularly with his interior defense and physical presence.
Despite Towns’ struggles, Bondy emphasizes that he’s too skilled and integral to be sidelined, meaning Thibodeau must find a more effective rotation that balances talent with defensive reliability.
Bondy outlines two potential lineup adjustments.
The first involves swapping Josh Hart for Mitchell Robinson in the starting five, which would allow the Knicks to deploy a “twin towers” look, reminiscent of the Minnesota Timberwolves’ strategy last postseason with Towns and Rudy Gobert.
This configuration would enhance the team’s rim protection and pick-and-roll coverage from the opening tip.
Additionally, it would allow the coaching staff to manage Robinson’s minutes strategically, subbing him out before opponents, like Indiana, exploit his free-throw shooting late in quarters.
The second proposed change is to insert Miles McBride in place of Hart. Though this move would create a smaller backcourt, pairing McBride with Jalen Brunson, it comes with upside.
McBride has delivered the team’s best net rating in the series at +20.6 and is known for his on-ball defensive prowess.
His presence could help neutralize Indiana’s backcourt, particularly when Brunson is being targeted on the defensive end.
Ultimately, the Knicks are searching for a spark and a more balanced lineup as they head to Indiana, where any further slip could put their season on the brink.
Knicks Notes: Potential Lineup Change, Robinson, McBride, Road Record, Bridges https://t.co/pFlZqJDFoz pic.twitter.com/eapfnytxD1
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) May 25, 2025
