Mike Brown understands that a genuine assessment of the Knicks will require some time.

Mike Brown Shares Insight on Team Evaluation

CHICAGO — Coach Mike Brown believes he needs about a month to accurately assess his team and the overall landscape of the NBA.

“It’s going to take some time,” he noted. “Getting a clear evaluation after just the first five to ten games is tough. I mean, anyone who’s been around this league knows that. In the early part of the season, there’s a sense of optimism—everyone feels like they have a shot, and players really give it their all. It’s not uncommon to see teams that start strong but don’t end up there.”

“Teams are finding their rhythm, so our focus is on evaluating everyone—not just one player or the defense, but the offensive play as well. I mean, we really hope to have a clearer picture perhaps by late November or December.”

The Knicks, adapting to a new coach, have some stability with their top seven players returning from last year. Heading into their Halloween matchup against the Bulls, they sit at 2-2, ranking 24th in offense and 7th in defense.

Jalen Brunson shared, “I thought our defense was solid at times, but we didn’t maintain that energy throughout the full 48 minutes—on either end of the floor.”

On a different note, Draymond Green expressed skepticism about the Knicks’ chances this season.

“I don’t see them as contenders,” Green said during a podcast. “I think we can disrupt their offense. At the end of the day, teams that lack a defensive mindset struggle to win at the highest level.”

Although Green didn’t mention anyone by name, it’s clear he has a history of criticism toward Karl-Anthony Towns, especially regarding defensive efforts. Last season, Green accused Towns of feigning injury to avoid facing Jimmy Butler, when in reality, Towns was attending a family friend’s funeral.

Meanwhile, Josh Hart has faced some challenges shooting due to finger and back injuries. Brunson suggested Hart should tune out the critics.

“When he’s home working on his game, it’s a different story,” Brunson explained. “He’s aware of outside chatter, but honestly, who cares? People will always have opinions, whether we’re playing well or not.”