Knicks’ Bench Adjustments: Mixed Results Amid Injuries

NEW ORLEANS — The Knicks might not have had the ideal scenario in mind when they constructed their bench, but the outcome isn’t the main concern right now.

With Gershon Yabusele sidelined and on the trade block, and Pachom Dadiette, the only first-round pick remaining, not taking any minutes, the Knicks are looking to other young talents to address the gaps caused by injuries.

Kevin McCullar Jr. stepped up during Saturday’s victory over the Hawks, logging an impressive 23 minutes while defending Trae Young, who hasn’t had the best season, scoring just nine points.

McCullar, a second-round pick in 2024, filled in for Josh Hart admirably, putting up 13 points, grabbing eight rebounds, and diving after loose balls. This is particularly significant, as Hart will miss at least the next two games, including Monday’s against New Orleans, due to an ankle sprain.

McCullar exceeded expectations with his shooting and defensive skills, especially against Atlanta’s guards.

Remarkably, he even managed to hold Young scoreless.

“In my plan, I was going to give him a chance around the eighth minute of the first quarter,” Coach Mike Brown explained. “He’s a young player with a lot of defensive talent, and I wanted to see what he’d do. He earned more minutes as the game went on.”

If McCullar continues to perform well, the bench’s depth may include:

• Myles McBride (who might return Monday after missing eight games with an ankle injury).
• Mitchell Robinson (a top offensive rebounder in the league).
• Jordan Clarkson (who can be inconsistent but shows potential).
• Tyler Kolek (whose defense has opened up more playing time).
• Mohamed Diawara, a rookie with considerable defensive potential.
• Landry Shamet (hoping to come back next month after shoulder surgery).
• McCullar (whose rookie year was slowed by a knee injury).

“That’s the essence of teamwork,” Brown remarked. “I trust all our players. With some guys sidelined, we have to keep finding the next available player.”

Brown deserves recognition for trying out various lineups and fostering confidence in his players. This approach might pay off down the road.

Since being appointed, Brown aimed to broaden the rotation and highlight player development. Both Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges are receiving more minutes than anticipated, and it’s yielding positive results.

For Knicks fans who’ve been around since 2020, it might feel like there’s a reason to consider replacing Tom Thibodeau due to how the bench was previously utilized.

However, it’s interesting to note that of the seven players who now form the reliable bench, only McBride and Kolek were available under Thibodeau last season.

Shamet, Robinson, and McCullar were dealing with injuries last year, while Diawara and Clarkson are new additions.

In summary, even though the season hasn’t unfolded as expected since the summer, the management of personnel has shifted. Players are gradually earning the trust of their coach. Brown’s strategy focuses on fluidity in roles, energetic play, and solid defense, which may explain the absence of Yabusele and Dadiette.

Other young players are stepping up to help the Knicks navigate injuries, providing defensive support and easing the minutes for starters. Meanwhile, Kolek, Clarkson, and now McCullar have been creating some noteworthy moments on the court.