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**Robinson’s Free Throw Surge a Lone Bright Spot in Knicks’ Game 5 Loss; McBride Continues Solid Play**
**Boston, MA -** In an otherwise dismal Game 5 performance, center Mitchell Robinson provided a surprising spark for the New York Knicks, defying his postseason free-throw struggles and going a perfect 6-for-6 from the charity stripe in Wednesday night’s loss to the Boston Celtics. The Celtics had intentionally fouled him, a tactic previously employed with success to neutralize the Knicks’ big man.
Robinson’s unexpected accuracy drew enthusiastic reactions from the strong Knicks fan base present at TD Garden. Despite his previous struggles (11-38 entering the game), Robinson’s overall value to the Knicks has been undeniable. He is the only Knick with a positive NET rating in the series (+10.6) and leads the team in postseason NET rating overall at +4.1, illustrating the Knicks’ improved performance when he is on the court.
While Robinson’s performance was a welcome surprise, second year guard Miles McBride has been a consistent performer off the bench for New York since the first round. McBride has averaged 7.6 points in 21 minutes per game on 53% 3-point shooting. McBride contributed 11 points and 3 assists in Game 5.
The Celtics’ victory brings them one step closer to breaking a recent trend. The last defending champion to reach the Conference Finals was the Golden State Warriors in 2019. The Warriors are also the last franchise to repeat as champions, winning the NBA Finals in 2017 and 2018.
Looking ahead to Game 6, Knicks forward Precious Achiuwa is listed as questionable with a right ankle sprain. Achiuwa saw limited minutes late in Game 5, when the outcome was no longer in doubt. The Knicks will need all the help they can get as they face elimination.
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