For the longest time, following the New York Knicks was a grind. It was all about low-scoring games, focused on outworking the opponent. Although you cannot win without talent, Knicks basketball highlighted more will than skill. Of course, it brought on its own brand of fun. However, it got ugly at times. But these days, as the Knicks head to the Eastern Conference Finals, New York Basketball boasts a new blueprint.<\/p>\n
Finishing up a sweep of the Philadelphia 76ers, the Knicks look unstoppable in the postseason. Remarkably, New York is outscoring opponents by an astounding 194 points over the last 10 games<\/a>. Although the number is insane, the sample size argues that this run is much more than a lucky hot streak. New York is dominating because everything is clicking at the right time.<\/p>\n The most impressive part of the Knicks’ playoff run is how they are winning basketball games. In their Game 4 roasting of Philadelphia, New York tied an NBA playoff record with 25 made three-pointers<\/a>. Although incredible and unlikely to happen often, it did not occur by accident.<\/p>\n Under head coach Mike Brown<\/a>, the offense has taken on a completely new identity. It is no longer about one-on-one offensive creation. The game plan involves quick decision-making, off-ball movement, and high-post setups. This brand of offense prevents defenders from settling in and ever getting comfortable.<\/p>\n New York’s efficient and frequent attack from three-point range places the opposition in a pickle. If they address the long-range game, it opens up the middle. If the paint opens up, the Knicks have enough talented players to make defenses pay.<\/p>\n A key catalyst for New York’s winning formula is Karl-Anthony Towns<\/a>. Since Brown has unlocked the big man’s true skill set, the Knicks can operate in a completely different way. Towns’s effective perimeter play, passing, and high IQ allow the team to play with their center away from the basket. Of course, this places the opposing center further from the rim and opens up that area of the floor, allowing for other Knicks to attack inside.<\/p>\n Of course, this is an ideal situation for Jalen Brunson<\/a>. Though he started slowly in round one, he now uses the open lanes created by Towns to generate offense. If the Knicks want to make it to the NBA Finals, they need Brunson at his best. Luckily for them, he is finally there.<\/p>\n Even amid the offensive explosion, the Knicks continue to play elite defense. Even with OG Anunoby<\/a> sidelined due to injury, Mikal Bridges<\/a> and Josh Hart<\/a> continue to soften the blow and shut down the perimeter. Hart is a true unicorn. He is a guard that rebounds like a forward, proving he is good for close to double-digit boards any given night. With Hart, the Knicks can trot out a smaller lineup with more speed and not risk giving up more offensive rebounds.<\/p>\n With New York’s extended break, Anunoby should have ample resting time. If he can return for the Eastern Conference Finals, the Knicks possess three elite defenders.<\/p>\nPacing & Spacing<\/h3>\n
Towns Taking Over<\/h3>\n
Defense Still Dominating<\/h3>\n
No Panic<\/h3>\n