Mike Brown is open to a change in the Knicks’ starting lineup, but not at this moment.

Playoff Lineup Decisions for the Knicks

ATLANTA — Mike Brown acknowledged he’s had some talks about possibly changing the starting lineup—”there’s always going to be discussions around that”—but for the immediate future, he doesn’t foresee any changes as they head into the playoffs.

“I honestly don’t think it’ll happen, but we’re set to start those five games, and that’s my current outlook,” he mentioned. “If I ever feel a need to make adjustments, I certainly will. But for now, I’m comfortable with this lineup.”

Sources have suggested that the inclusion of Landry Shamet in the starting unit has been considered. Earlier in the season, Brown made a significant change by substituting Mitchell Robinson for Josh Hart.

On Monday, Brown revealed that his coaching staff influenced his decision to move away from the initial double-big lineup featuring Robinson and Karl-Anthony Towns—a change that took place back in December.

“There’s always a debate. I mean, when we began the season with two centers, it was a hot topic. I was constantly getting feedback from all sides,” he said. “It’s been a regular part of our conversations.”

“It’s just casual talk throughout the season, looking for ways to elevate the team. I think there’s always that chatter about shifting the lineup now… but honestly, nothing stands out to me that requires immediate action.”

The current starting five for the Knicks (Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Hart, OG Anunoby, and Towns) has struggled in the first quarter of games leading up to Monday’s narrow victory over the Hawks. Despite playing the third-most minutes in the league, Towns had a net rating of -0.7, with a dismal -8.1 in the first quarters.

Yet, they managed to take a three-point lead by the first substitutions on Monday and closed out the game with a strong finishing run.

In the playoffs, Brown is expected to utilize a nine-man rotation, featuring Miles McBride, Robinson, Shamet, and Jordan Clarkson coming off the bench.

Meanwhile, Jose Alvarado didn’t play for the first time but remained upbeat. “I’m feeling great, just relaxed,” he said after being acquired by Leon Rose at the trade deadline. “I’m prepared for my time to shine. When my name comes up, I’ll be ready.”

On another note, Towns mentioned that the impingement in his right elbow, which sidelined him during Saturday’s game against the Bulls, has been bothering him for quite a while. “That’s the current situation,” he commented.