Donte DiVincenzo has underperformed in the postseason so far. Is it time for him to be replaced by Miles McBride in the starting lineup?
The Knicks head back to Philly for Game 6 tonight after a heartbreaking loss in Game 5. Although there were a lot of costly mistakes that led to this loss, once again, Donte DiVincenzo struggled offensively and found himself on the bench during the 4th quarter. Overall, besides the big shot he made to propel the Knicks to victory in Game 2, DiVincenzo hasn’t been much of a contributor for the Knicks during this series.
A Non Factor
Unfortunately, DiVincenzo has only scored double digits points only once in this series, in the course of shooting 30% or less from the field in four of the five games played. Also, DiVincenzo has shot a woeful 30% from behind the arc, which is the complete opposite of what he did in the regular season.
When you break the Knicks all-time record for three pointers made while shooting over 40% from the three point line, these kind of performances in the postseason are unacceptable. The Knicks need consistent shooting from DiVincenzo if they want to win this series and make a deep run in the playoffs. On the other hand, Miles McBride has been able to make up for DiVincenzo’s struggles thus far, which is a big reason why the Knicks have a 3-2 series lead at the moment.
McBride’s Elevation
Although McBride played a part in the Game 5 debacle at the Garden, he has been a jolt of energy off the bench for the Knicks this series and has hit shots in key moments. In the five games he has played, McBride has shot better than 46% from deep while scoring double digit points in three of the five games. Plus, he’s been a solid presence on the defensive end, averaging close to one steal a game. He’s taken on the tough task of guarding Tyrese Maxey while trying to provide help defense on Joel Embiid. This has not been an easy task but he has definitely proved his worth with the way he has played this series. In the end, McBride has been more of a key contributor than DiVincenzo on both ends of the floor and has made a bigger impact when he’s been on the court. Since this is the case, should McBride replace DiVincenzo in the starting lineup for the time being?
Trading Places
Now, for the sake of closing out this series, I believe DiVincenzo should come off the bench while McBride starts. Previously, one of the main problems the Knicks have had in this series is getting off to a good start. They always find themselves trying to claw back into the game and cut the lead down to stay in striking distance.
In contrast, maybe starting McBride can give the Knicks the jolt of energy they need to get off to a good start, while DiVincenzo tries to find his mojo off the bench. Ultimately, if the Knicks can close out the 76ers, I would probably bring DiVincenzo back into the starting lineup for the next round. This should be a temporary switch in the rotation. McBride has been the more effective player in this series, which is the reason why he should get the start for Game 6 and potentially Game 7. The Knicks can’t afford to get off to a slow start or have another bad shooting game by DiVincenzo. We’ll see if Coach Thibodeau makes this change going into tonight’s game.
The Knicks need to do whatever it takes to close this series out and advance to round two. If Thibodeau sticks with DiVincenzo as a starter, hopefully he can shake off his struggles and be productive. However, if McBride gets the start, I think it will be a great move for the time being. Whichever way Thibodeau decides to go with the lineup, one thing still remains. The Knicks have to get out to a good start in order to win this game tonight. It’s do or die at this point.
Upcoming Playoff Schedule
Game 6 – Tonight: Knicks @ 76ers 9PM ET on TNT
Game 7 (if necessary)- Saturday: Knicks vs 76ers 7PM ET (TV Network not listed)
