Mitchell Robinson had ankle surgical procedure. Julius Randle is out for weeks. OG Anunoby has a sore elbow. That did not cease their backups from pushing Indiana round Thursday night time.
The shorthanded Knicks began Treasured Achiuwa and Isaiah Hartenstein alongside Josh Hart on the ahead spots. The three mixed for 47 rebounds, together with 19 on the offensive glass.
Within the ultimate 2:30, the Knicks grabbed 5 offensive rebounds, which led to 5 factors. That was the distinction within the recreation, as New York held on to beat Indiana, 109-105.
Achiuwa, who came to visit from the Toronto Raptors alongside Anunoby in a commerce final month, completed with 12 factors, 16 rebounds, two blocks and 4 steals. His protection was large late within the recreation. With somewhat over a minute to play, Achiuwa blocked former teammate Pascal Siakam, then stole the ball from him throughout Indiana’s subsequent possession.
It was the Knicks’ ninth straight win, and a really outstanding one. Not solely had been they enjoying an excellent Pacers staff whereas down three starters, they shot solely 21 % from three-point vary towards the NBA’s high offense. However they gained by locking down the Pacers late and grabbing 16 extra rebounds – and letting Jalen Brunson carry the offense with 40 factors.
New York’s reserves are stepping up, although the “subsequent man up” mentality may not apply to an rising celebrity like Brunson. However so long as he is on the court docket, the Knicks have an opportunity. Regardless of who else is out.
