Knicks Prepare for Flexible Roles in Title Defense

Knicks Aim to Expand Their Approach After Last Season's Playoff Surge

The Knicks' playoff run last year might have just been a warm-up. During the postseason, their offense transformed into a powerhouse that led to a dominant championship victory. This shift came out of necessity after they fell behind 2-1 in the first round against the Hawks. Now, with a full training camp and preseason ahead, the team has time to refine and build on that strategy.

"I feel like we can do a lot more, do a lot of different things," Jalen Brunson said following the Knicks' first practice of the season. "We unlocked something last year during the playoffs when we needed it, and it worked. It’s going to be fun to integrate it from the start this season too."

Karl-Anthony Towns’ Role as Offensive Hub Continues

A key change was moving Karl-Anthony Towns to a central role at the elbows, where he could handle the ball and create plays. This eased some of the playmaking load from Brunson and took advantage of Towns’ passing skills, pulling opposing centers away from the paint. It also gave room for OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges to excel as cutters and screeners around Towns, boosting the Knicks' offensive efficiency significantly.

This approach will remain important this season, with coach Mike Brown suggesting possible tweaks. "Playing with KAT at the elbow more than last regular season is a focus," Brown said. "After a year with this group, we know players better. I wasn’t sure if OG could be as effective in pick-and-roll as he was, same with Mikal. Finding ways to involve them more at the top of the floor is something we’ll explore."

Brown added, "We have great cutters with size, and KAT is an excellent facilitator. Maybe Andre Drummond can take on a similar role? Maybe OG shifts to the five spot more than last year. There are many directions we can take, offensively and defensively. Nothing is set in stone."

Potential New Roles for Anunoby and Bridges

Last season, Brown’s system often had Anunoby and Bridges stationed in the corners for three-point opportunities — which Brown calls "sprays." They led the league in corner three attempts during the regular season, with 199 and 198 respectively, according to NBA stats. This was central to the Knicks’ offense.

Yet both improved as ball handlers and slashers during the playoffs, especially Anunoby, who occasionally carried the offense and showed an ability to score off the dribble. Letting him spend more time away from the corners, moving into the middle of the floor, might unlock his best form — possibly All-Star level.

The idea of using Anunoby as a small-ball center is interesting, particularly since Drummond is the only backup center locked in behind Towns on the roster.

"Much of what we did last year carries over, but we’ll test new things," Brown explained. "Some playoff strategies may not suit the regular season. We must adapt or pivot as the season unfolds, aiming to peak by playoff time with the right confidence."

Team Chemistry and Adaptability Drive Success

This ability to adjust came because a veteran group was willing to shift roles for the team’s benefit. Honest communication and closeness made it work.

"As a group, we realized we need each other to win and stay on the same page," Brunson said. "You never know when things will click, but if you keep working every day, eventually that breakthrough comes."

Now, the Knicks face a fresh challenge as they prepare to defend their title, ready to try new roles and tactics.