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Defensively, the Knicks were equally impressive. They limited the Nets to just 36 points in the paint, compared to their own 58, highlighting a dominant interior presence. Mitchell Robinson was a standout, playing only 16 minutes but earning a remarkable plus-40 plus-minus rating. Robinson's impact was palpable—intercepting passes, blocking shots, and controlling the boards.
Robinson’s physicality was on full display, especially against Brooklyn’s lighter big men Noah Clowney and Nick Claxton. His strength and timing allowed him to root out defenders and establish offensive rebounding positions. Notably, his back-to-back near blocks and relentless energy exemplified how crucial he is to the Knicks' defensive schemes.