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yesterday

Knicks Face Lineup Dilemma After Falling 0-2 to Pacers in Eastern Finals

Tom Thibodeau’s decision to bench Karl-Anthony Towns in Game 2 highlights the tension between defensive adjustments and offensive needs as New York struggles to find answers.

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 21: Tyrese Haliburton #0 of the Indiana Pacers attempts a three point basket against Mitchell Robinson #23 of the New York Knicks during the third quarter in Game One of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 21, 2025 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • The Knicks lost 114-109 to the Pacers in Game 2, leaving them down 0-2 in the Eastern Conference Finals with only 7% of teams historically recovering from such a deficit.
  • Mitchell Robinson’s defensive presence helped turn an early 10-point deficit into a halftime lead, but questions remain about his limited offensive contributions.
  • Karl-Anthony Towns scored 20 points but was benched for over six minutes in the fourth quarter due to defensive concerns, finishing with a minus-20 rating.
  • New York’s starting lineup has struggled throughout the playoffs, entering Game 2 with a minus-68 net rating, prompting calls for changes to the rotation.
  • Indiana coach Rick Carlisle countered Robinson’s impact by substituting Myles Turner with Tony Bradley, showcasing the Pacers’ flexibility and deeper rotation.