The upcoming Game 4 between the New York Knicks and the Miami Heat promises to be an exciting matchup. The Eastern Conference semifinal-round series is currently being led by the Heat with a 2-1 score. The Knicks have been struggling so far, losing Game 1 at home, almost losing Game 2 (Heat without Jimmy Butler) and getting blown out in Game 3. The Heat have outperformed the Knicks in almost every category, with better shooting, fewer turnovers, and a much higher assist rate. The only area where the Knicks are doing better is rebounding, although only slightly.
Despite the Knicks’ struggles, there are some positives to take from their performance. They have played well on the road this season, with a better record away from home than at home. Additionally, Jalen Brunson is expected to get extended playing time with Immanuel Quickley doubtful for Game 4. Brunson has been performing impressively in the playoffs, averaging 41 fantasy points per game in this series. He is expected to be one of the top performers in the upcoming game.
Without Quickley, Quentin Grimes and Josh Hart will likely share Quickley’s 20+ minutes in the rotation. Grimes hasn’t been performing well in this series, but with projected minutes in the upper 20s, he might be worth considering as a cheap option. Hart has been playing well in the postseason and is a viable option, but his high price tag may be a turn-off for some. RJ Barrett has been quietly having a decent series and is expected to get some extra minutes in the upcoming game.
Julius Randle has had an inconsistent performance in the playoffs so far, getting hurt in Game 1, dominating in Game 2, and struggling in Game 3. However, he is still expected to see plenty of minutes and shot volume in Game 4. Mitchell Robinson has been struggling with fouls against the Heat, but he could be a force if he manages to stay on the court. Isaiah Hartenstein is likely to get significant minutes off the bench if Robinson runs into foul trouble.
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