Mitchell Robinson dominant in the paint again in Knicks’ Game 2 victory

BOSTON – Mitchell Robinson’s Impact in the Eastern Conference Semi-Final

Mitchell Robinson has clearly made a significant impact during the first two games of the Eastern Conference Semi-Final Series.

Standing at 7 feet tall, he played a key role in the Knicks’ Game 1 victory and was instrumental in their nail-biting 91-90 win in Game 2 on Wednesday night.

Robinson showcased his defensive prowess, logging 22 minutes off the bench, accumulating 6 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 steals.

During his time on the court, the Knicks outperformed the Celtics by 19 points overall, and they were 32 points better in the series when Robinson played for 43 minutes.

“It’s just better than the last game—that was my mindset,” Robinson mentioned. “I had to adjust myself.”

In the series opener, the Celtics deliberately fouled Robinson several times, putting them ahead 10-3 in free throws.

They attempted the same strategy again, but the Knicks replaced him before they reached the bonus.

“In fact, it makes me feel like a threat. You want to get me out of the game,” Robinson reflected. “I’m just saying, are you trying to get me out of the game? Why do you want me out?”

Knicks’ Defensive Stand in Series

Robinson was central to the crucial defensive stop that helped the Knicks take a 2-0 lead in the series.

With 12.7 seconds remaining, after Jalen Brunson made two free throws, Robinson switched to guard Celtics star Jason Tatum.

Tatum attempted to maneuver around him; however, Robinson stayed close. As Tatum turned near the baseline, Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby managed their assignments well, leading to Bridges intercepting Tatum’s pass meant for Jalen Brown, which ultimately sealed the win.

“It’s pretty epic,” Robinson stated. “He’s a great player, so I did whatever it took to get it done.”

In stark contrast, Kristaps Porzingis had a limited but impactful appearance, scoring 8 points and grabbing 4 rebounds in just 14 minutes after battling illness.

Having missed a significant stretch of games in March due to upper respiratory issues, Porzingis conveyed that he wasn’t at his best. “It kills inside what’s going on in this moment… My energy, my whole thing, wasn’t good, but who cares. I have to look forward to it. I hope it gets better from this point on.”