The Knicks Return to a Familiar Strategy

The Knicks seem to have found their rhythm again, which sparked a remarkable comeback in Game 1.

There’s been a lot of discussion about how the team shifted offensively, turning a 2-1 first-round deficit into a series of seven consecutive wins.

By utilizing Karl-Anthony Towns as a passer from the elbow, they opened up opportunities for teammates to cut and create space, particularly benefiting Jalen Brunson. The Hawks and 76ers struggled to respond to this approach, leading to a significant uptick in Towns’ assists.

However, against the Cavaliers, Towns faced a tougher challenge. With strong defenders like Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, his usual efficiency didn’t shine through. Unlike previous opponents, the Cavaliers’ big men proved more challenging for him to navigate.

He ended up with seven turnovers, although he did contribute five assists.

To mount their comeback, the Knicks pivoted away from this strategy. Starting with Brunson handling the ball, they spread the floor, allowing him to take charge, which he did with vigor.

Coach Mike Brown commented after practice on Wednesday, “We tried to sort out a lot of things today; we need to perform better as a team.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining a dynamic offense as they adjust in the next game.

Brunson was instrumental, notching 15 points, including an impressive 11 straight for the Knicks in the fourth quarter. His ability to relentlessly pursue James Harden throughout the game didn’t go unnoticed. Despite not initially being matched up with him, the Knicks ensured switches brought Brunson against Harden repeatedly.

ESPN’s Tim Legler shared insights on the Knicks’ strategy, noting they forced nine isolation plays against Harden in those crucial moments, averaging an impressive 1.9 points per action. Atkinson, the Cavaliers’ coach, observed the trend before deciding to call a timeout to adjust Harden’s defensive assignment.

Josh Hart commented on Brunson’s standout performance, stating, “It was great to see him take over when it mattered.”

Unlike the fluid style of play that characterized their previous games, this was more of a one-on-one battle, and Brunson made the most of it against Harden.

That said, moving away from the Towns-focused system entirely isn’t necessary. Even if Game 1 didn’t go as planned, they showcased the effectiveness of Brunson’s style in those circumstances.

This flexibility gives the Knicks various strategies for different scenarios.

As the series unfolds, the Knicks believe they can adapt their approach around Towns, especially as players like OG Anunoby find their rhythm. “We’re trying to highlight the diversity within our team,” Brown noted, stressing the need to maintain that throughout games.

The Knicks are prepared for adjustments from the Cavaliers, particularly if they choose to double-team Brunson. In that case, reverting to a system centered around Towns might be advantageous.

“They’ll mix things up,” Brown said. “Our goal is to enhance our offensive diversity, so no one can simply predict our next move.”

In targeting Harden, the Knicks have potentially found a major advantage, as the Cavaliers lack a defensive standout capable of slowing Brunson when he gains momentum.

Still, they have plenty of strategies up their sleeves for what’s to come.