Knicks Prepare for Flexible Roles as They Aim to Defend Title
The Knicks’ playoff run last year might have just been a warm-up for what’s next. Their postseason offense, which sparked a dominant championship push, was actually a quick fix after falling behind 2-1 against the Hawks in the first round. Now, with a full training camp and preseason ahead, they have time to practice and refine that style.
Jalen Brunson expressed optimism after the team’s first practice, saying, "I feel like we can do a lot more, do a lot of different things. We unlocked something in the playoffs when it mattered, and now it’ll be fun to start the season integrating it from the get-go."
Building Around Karl-Anthony Towns
The key shift last year was using Karl-Anthony Towns differently—putting him at the elbows to handle the ball and facilitate. This took some pressure off Brunson, allowing him to play off the ball. It also highlighted Towns’ passing skills, pulling opposing centers away from the paint, while OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges thrived cutting and setting screens. The result? A significant boost in offensive efficiency.
This approach remains central, but coach Mike Brown hinted at new twists for this season. "We’ll play with KAT at the elbow more than last year," Brown said. "After spending a year with these guys, I know OG and Mikal can be effective in pick-and-rolls. We want to find ways to get them involved up top." He added that the team has great cutters with size and that maybe even Andre Drummond could take on some facilitation duties. Brown also mentioned the possibility of moving OG to the five spot more often. "Nothing’s set in stone," he stressed.
Expanding Roles for Anunoby and Bridges
Last season, Anunoby and Bridges mostly stayed in the corners for three-point shots, leading the NBA in corner attempts with 198 and 199 respectively. That was a key part of the Knicks’ offense.
But both have improved their ball handling and slashing during the playoffs. Anunoby, especially, stepped up as a scorer off the dribble, delivering some of his best performances ever. Using him more in the middle of the floor rather than the corners could unlock an All-Star-level game. Plus, with Drummond likely the only backup center behind Towns, Anunoby playing small-ball center is an intriguing option.
Brown shared, "A lot from last year carries over, but we’ll try new things too. What worked in the playoffs might not suit the regular season, so we have to be ready to adapt and hopefully peak around playoff time, gaining confidence along the way."
Team Chemistry Drives Adaptability
This flexibility was possible because the veteran-heavy squad was ready to adjust roles for the team’s success. Honest communication and tight bonds made it happen.
Brunson said, "We figured out we need each other to win and to be on the same page. You never know when things will click, but if you keep working every day, eventually it’ll break through."
Now, the Knicks are ready to tap into new possibilities.
