Knicks hoping bench can come up big again in critical Game 6

Mitchell Robinson was one of the few bright spots for the Knicks in Wednesday’s ugly Game 5 loss in Boston. 

Not only did the 7-footer bring his unusual tenacity on the defensive end and on the offensive glass, he also hit all six of his free throws. 

It was a stunning development considering Robinson entered the night 11 of 38 at the charity stripe in the postseason.

The strong Knicks fan contingent in attendance erupted at each make, after the Celtics had intentionally sent Robinson to the line. 

The Pistons and Celtics have tried to neutralize Robinson by forcing him to take free throws.

The plan has mostly worked, but it didn’t help Boston in Game 5. 

Mitchell Robinson #23 of the New York Knicks hits a free-throw during the first quarter. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post

Despite Robinson’s issues at the line, he has still been a valuable Knick coming off the bench.

He is their lone player in the series with a positive NET rating (10.6).

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He is also their leader in the postseason in NET rating at plus-4.1, meaning the Knicks are outscoring the opposition by 4.1 points per 100 possessions with Robinson on the floor. 

After a shaky opening-round series against the Pistons, Miles McBride has been productive in the conference semifinals.

The reserve guard is averaging 7.6 points and has made 10 of 19 3-point shots in 21 minutes per game. McBride scored 11 points and notched three assists in Game 5.

Miles McBride #2 of the New York Knicks puts up a three-point shot over Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics during the second quarter. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post

The Celtics are looking to snap a recent trend of champions failing to get out of the second round of the playoffs.

The last team to win it all and reach the conference finals was the Warriors in 2019. Golden State lost to the Raptors in the NBA Finals that spring.

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The Warriors are also the last franchise to repeat, winning titles in 2017 and 2018. 

The Knicks listed forward Precious Achiuwa as questionable for Game 6 with a right ankle sprain. Achiuwa appeared late in Game 5 when the result was long determined.