Did the 25-26 Knicks Make a Pivotal Game One Decision with Late Game Benching?
After a historic comeback victory in Game One of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the New York Knicks find themselves in a prime position heading into Game Two. Jalen Brunson once again led the charge with 38 points, while Mikal Bridges continued to elevate his offensive production at the perfect time. Even OG Anunoby, who is still working through a hamstring injury, appeared significantly more comfortable and impactful throughout the game. Head coach Mike Brown has built a reputation this postseason on tactical in-game adjustments, and Game One showcased exactly why those decisions have helped the Knicks become one of the hottest teams remaining in the NBA Playoffs. One of the most notable changes came late in regulation and throughout overtime, when Brown leaned on Landry Shamet over longtime starter Josh Hart. After Shamet’s impactful performance, questions immediately surfaced about whether the adjustment could become a larger storyline moving forward.
Hart has been one of the most important pieces of New York’s identity since arriving in a trade from the Portland Trail Blazers during the 2022-2023 season. Averaging 12 points, eight rebounds, and five assists while shooting above league average efficiency, Hart has developed into the ultimate do-it-all wing for the Knicks. His rebounding ability, despite standing only six-foot-four, consistently separates him from most players at his position. However, Game One of the Eastern Conference Finals presented an unusual situation. Hart posted a negative 13 plus-minus while the rest of New York’s starters finished comfortably in positive territory. Statistically, Hart still contributed 13 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, but Brown ultimately opted for a lineup with more spacing and perimeter shooting late in the contest. The decision proved critical as the Knicks erased a 22-point deficit and completed one of the most memorable comebacks in franchise playoff history.
Shamet’s role with the Knicks has been difficult to define throughout his two seasons in New York. Despite appearing in more than 100 regular-season games during that span, he has consistently moved in and out of the rotation under both Mike Brown and former head coach Tom Thibodeau. In Game One, however, the 29-year-old delivered one of his strongest performances of the postseason. He scored nine points, all from three-point range, while posting a team-best plus-25 rating. His ability to stretch the floor opened driving lanes for Brunson and Bridges while also forcing Cleveland’s defense into difficult rotations. Unlike Miles McBride, Jordan Clarkson, and Jose Alvarado, Shamet operates more naturally in a wing role, allowing New York to maintain size without sacrificing shooting. Throughout the regular season, many believed he could have been moved at the NBA Trade Deadline, but the Knicks kept faith in the veteran sharpshooter and were rewarded in a major playoff moment.
While Hart’s starting role is likely secure because of his chemistry and versatility, Brown now faces an intriguing late-game decision moving forward in the Eastern Conference Finals. Cleveland frequently used Jarrett Allen to defend Hart in Game One, creating difficult offensive matchups due to the Cavs center’s length and physicality. By inserting Shamet late in the game, New York gained additional spacing and perimeter efficiency that completely shifted momentum. Hart will still remain a major part of the Knicks’ identity, especially because of his defensive versatility and relentless energy, but the 29-year-old’s emergence gives New York another dangerous option in closing lineups. As Game Two approaches, the Knicks suddenly have even more flexibility in a postseason run that already feels special. Whether Shamet’s role continues to expand or Game One simply becomes a situational adjustment, Brown has once again shown why his coaching decisions are helping guide New York closer toward the NBA Finals.
