Deep-rooted issue with Knicks' reserves set to be severely challenged against Payton Pritchard and Boston Celtics' backup players.
The Knicks, known for their top-tier starting five, face a tough challenge against Boston's deep bench, led by the Sixth Man of the Year, Payton Pritchard. Already struggling against other benches, the Knicks now encounter a formidable opponent.
Tom Thibodeau admitted, "Pritchard had a terrific season... He usually has five 3-point shooters on the floor." Pritchard's impressive regular-season average of 14.3 points per game on 47.2% shooting may prove troublesome for the Knicks.
In the playoffs, Pritchard's minutes have decreased slightly, but his scoring has remained strong, averaging 9.2 points per game on 51.6% shooting. The challenge for the Knicks lies in their bench depth, particularly Miles McBride, who struggled during the first round.
McBride scored merely 3.8 points per game in the regular season with poor shooting percentages. He'll likely face off against Pritchard, and this matchup could significantly tilt the balance in Boston's favor.
Thibodeau defended McBride, stating, "Our bench has been productive throughout the year. So just bounce back, be good in the next one."
Mitchell Robinson, the one bright spot for the Knicks' bench in the first round, could prove crucial with his defense against Boston's sharp-shooting big men Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford. Robinson's defensive skills, especially his ability to switch on pick-and-rolls, may be key to limiting Boston's offense.
However, Robinson struggled defensively against the Celtics in regular-season matchups, particularly in pick-and-roll situations. His mobility against Porzingis and Horford outside the perimeter will be tested, but his defensive acumen could potentially offset these limitations.
Inside the Garden, keep an eye on the duel between McBride and Pritchard, as their contrasting roles and responsibilities could severely impact this high-stakes series.
In the upcoming games, the Knicks' inexperienced bench, particularly Miles McBride, may struggle against the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year, Payton Pritchard, who continuously displays his ability to score from long range. Meanwhile, the defensive skills of Mitchell Robinson could be crucial in limiting the offensive production of Boston's big men, but his struggles with porzingis and Horford in pick-and-roll situations in regular-season matchups should not be overlooked.
The Knicks' success in this series may hinge on McBride's ability to match Pritchard's scoring output, as the duel between these two players could significantly impact the final outcome.
