Mitchell Robinson is averaging 4.1 points and 7.1 rebounds in the postseason while shooting 52.8% from the field.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — New York Knicks forward Mitchell Robinson started in place of guard Josh Hart for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals Sunday night.
The switch first appeared on the lineup card released 30 minutes before tip-off, coming after the Indiana Pacers rallied to win the first two games of the series on New York’s home court. The Knicks went on to win Game 3, 106-100.
Robinson’s presence added more size to New York’s defense and helped to slow down the Pacers track-like offense. He finished with six points, six rebounds, a block and a steal in 29 minutes.
Entering Sunday’s game, Hart averaged 12.3 points while shooting 48.4% from the field an 41.3% from 3-point range in nearly 37 minutes of playoff action. He had only taken nine shots and scored just 14 points total through the first two games. Hart ultimately played 34 minutes off the bench, racking up 8 points and 10 rebounds – several coming in the closing 4th-quarter run.
Robinson’s ability to rebound gave the Knicks energy boosts in the first two games.
Overall, the 7-foot center is averaging 4.1 points and 7.1 rebounds in the postseason while shooting 52.8% from the field.
