Hart clarifies why he decided to play as a substitute instead of starting in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals

According to the latest article by Chaitanya Dadwar, contributor of sports media F/W. Thibodeau came under fire from fans after deciding to let starter Josh Hart replace Mitchell Robinson in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals series against the Pacers. After the Knicks somehow bounced from a 20-point trail and won the game hard, Josh Hart gave the media an interview to clarify his role in making the decision.

He said: "It's never going to be a tough day for me because I was involved in that decision. So when I made a decision like this and got the ball in a row, it was fun because you guys were all scrambling to get answers to wins and so on. I never really cared because it was my decision and I was happy with it." He further added: "This is a conversation I had before, and I actually talked to you before Game 6, and I was struggling for the showdown at Turner, and I really couldn't figure it out."

He concluded: "This is something I've been in my mind all the time and I'm willing to do it. Especially looking at how he performed in the last game, it's just something we have to do. Obviously, it's a team decision, but it comes down to Thibodeau and myself...I don't care if I start or play 20 Minutes or what, everyone makes sacrifices as long as the team wins. ”

Hart fought Pascal Siakam and Miles Turner in Game 2, which prompted him to decide to start Robinson. Robinson was +6 on plus or negative in Game 2, while Hart was -10. After becoming a regular on the bench last season, Hart became a regular starter for the Knicks this season. Hart is a starter for the Knicks this season, averaging 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds and 5.9 assists in 77 games. By comparison, Hart averaged 6.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 39 games on the bench in the 2023-24 season. Hart ended the game with just 8 points.

His efficiency as a starter is obvious. However, according to the game against the Pacers, Hart may not be the best position to start. Considering the Knicks won the game, we expect Hart to come out on the bench again. But people simply cannot predict what Thibodeau intends to do.

Jaylen Brunson's opinion on Josh Hart's decision to sit on the bench

Jaylen Brunson himself fought foul trouble in Game 3, and he talked to the media about Hart's decision to start Mitchell Robinson. Brunson highly praised Hart and praised his ability to sacrifice for the team. "He wants to win, it's just a sign of his identity as a person, as a player and as a teammate. He doesn't care about anything personal. It's a real proof of a great teammate."

Game 4 will continue in Indiana, and the real question left is whether this change is enough to make the Knicks come back in the series, let's see! Of course, we are more looking forward to Thibodeau making more shocking decisions. What do you think?