Knicks Prepare for Varied Strategies and Role Adjustments in Title Defense

The Knicks’ playoff run last season may have been just the beginning. Their postseason unveiled a new offensive style that powered a dominant championship streak, though it was born from necessity after falling behind 2-1 against the Hawks in the first round. This year, with a full training camp and preseason, they plan to refine and possibly expand that approach.

"I feel like we can do a lot more, do a lot of different things," said Jalen Brunson following the team’s first practice of the season. "We unlocked something during the playoffs when we needed it, and it worked. Now it'll be exciting to integrate it from the start of the season."

Towns’ Role as Offensive Hub Remains Key

The biggest adjustment was how Karl-Anthony Towns operated within the offense, shifting him to a facilitator role at the elbows. This relieved some playmaking pressure from Brunson, allowed Towns to use his passing skills effectively, pulled opposing centers out of the paint, and created opportunities for OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges as cutters and screeners. The result was a significant boost in offensive efficiency.

This strategy will continue, with some new ideas on the horizon. Coach Mike Brown commented, "We’re obviously playing with KAT at the elbow more than during the regular season last year. After a year together, we know what players like OG and Mikal can do. We’ll explore ways to involve them more at the top of the floor."

Brown added, "We have great cutters with size, and KAT is a strong facilitator there. Maybe Andre Drummond can do the same. We might even see OG at the five more than before. Lots of options on both ends; nothing is set in stone."

New Roles for Anunoby and Bridges Could Emerge

Last year, Anunoby and Bridges mainly stayed in the corners for three-point shots—what Brown calls "sprays." Both led the league in corner 3-point attempts, with 199 and 198 respectively, according to official NBA tracking.

In the playoffs, both improved as ball handlers and slashers, taking more control of their offense. Anunoby especially stepped up, scoring off the dribble and delivering some of his best career performances.

Shifting Anunoby away from the corners and into the middle of the floor could unlock his potential as an All-Star-caliber player. Considering Drummond is the only confirmed backup center behind Towns, using Anunoby as a small-ball center might become a strategic option.

"Much of what worked in the playoffs will carry over," Brown said. "But some tactics might not fit the regular season. We have to be ready to adjust and aim to peak near the playoffs, building the confidence to push forward."

Team Adaptability and Communication Are Crucial

This flexibility came from a veteran team willing to shift roles for the collective benefit, driven by honest and open communication.

"We figured out we need each other to win and be on the same page," Brunson said. "You never know when things click. As long as you keep putting in the work and tapping the rock, eventually it breaks."

Now, the Knicks face a fresh challenge—a new "rock" to tap.