Sometimes the biggest changes happen beyond the game itself.
Last postseason, the Knicks really ramped things up, especially after they found themselves down 2-1 to the Hawks in the first round. There’s been quite a bit of discussion about how they switched to an offensive strategy that utilized Karl-Anthony Towns as a central figure, guiding plays at the elbows. This move turned out to be pivotal, fueling one of the most remarkable championship runs the NBA has ever seen.
This shift was possible because the coaching staff and players were open to discussing and trying new ideas. Towns expressed to Mike Brown and his team his desire to take on this new role. Chris Jent, the assistant in charge of the Knicks’ offense, also supported the idea, advocating for a style focused around Towns.
Collaboration and experimentation were key elements when it came to the coaching selection process last year, ultimately leading to Brown’s appointment. It’s difficult to argue that this openness didn’t contribute significantly to their successful championship journey.
Effective communication among players during the playoffs played a crucial role in their success.
“I think as a group,” Jalen Brunson mentioned, “we figured out that we need each other to win, obviously, and we need each other to be on the same page.”
It’s somewhat hard to recall those early struggles, especially considering the Knicks went on to win 13 of their final 14 games, many of them handily. But there was indeed a moment, after the first three games, when panic had set in.
It tested their resolve, but ultimately, they came together and maximized each other’s strengths. Interestingly, Brown actually welcomes tough times.
“Many people tend to avoid adversity,” Brown explained. “Especially early on, because it brings scrutiny, and it can be difficult to handle. I actually crave it. I want to ensure that both I and the team can face it.”
“In the beginning, especially with a new group, it’s tough, but confronting challenges early can make you stronger as the season progresses.”
Brunson’s bond with Josh Hart is widely known, yet there’s also a genuine closeness among the entire Knicks roster. This comfort with one another gives them a real edge.
They are not just able to face tough moments; they can use those experiences to improve.
“The first few weeks of the season will show us who we are,” Brunson stated. “No matter how we perform, be it good or bad, it’s about learning and growing. We’ll keep each other accountable, just like we did last year, making us better.”
The core group remains largely unchanged, with ten of the top eleven players in terms of minutes played last season returning, and only Mitchell Robinson not coming back.
In a league where repeating as champions has become increasingly rare, this gives the Knicks a glimmer of hope they can break that pattern.
“This is our second year with Mike and the coaches. The terminology remains the same. We’re progressing faster in training camp than we did at this point last year,” Landry Shamet said. “This continuity fosters confidence. It feels good being in a familiar environment.”
“We’re exploring, trying out new strategies, and seeing what works best as we build on it. Knowing what formula works allows us to move quickly. Having that experience in the offense gives us a bit more flexibility and should set us up well.”
The chemistry within the team truly matters. The Knicks are as tight-knit as ever.
