Knicks HC's Offense Off to a Hot Start

One major reason the Knicks decided to part ways with Thibodeau was due to the high usage of all-star point guard Jalen Brunson . Being heavily depended on isolation and a slow paced offense makes a team’s offense predictable. The same can not be said about Mike Brown’s offense. Brown installed an offense that requires fast pace, emphasizes ball movement and for players to move off the ball. For the past couple of years, the Knicks had players like Julius Randle who was heavily reliant on isolation, the same could be said about Brunson before the hiring of Brown.

So far this season the Knicks are averaging 310.4 passes per game, which ranks fifth in the league. Last season, the Knicks ranked outside the top 15, averaging 281.2 passes per game. The ball movement also allows the Knicks to attempt more open threes. As of right now, the Knicks attempt 42.9 threes per game, which is good for second in the NBA. Under Thibodeau, 34.1 attempts per game which ranked 26th.

Bench, BENCH, BENCH!

In the Knicks most recent win against a rebuilding Brooklyn Nets, not a single player played over 30 minutes. This is a huge deal being that Thibodeau would practically wear is players out due to over usage. Thibodeau would be dependent on a seven-man rotation throughout the season and especially in the playoffs. Whereas Mike Brown in the game against the Nets, went with a nine man rotation for most of the game.

Josh Hart and Landry Shamet played 21 minutes each, Jordan Clarkson played 18 minutes and Miles McBride played 16 minutes. All played a major role in the blowout win over the Knicks state rivals. Trusting your bench and not having to rely on your starters playing nearly 40 minutes per game helps the team in the long run. Less wear and tear when the playoffs approach and it shows the team that everyone is trusted enough to play an important role.

With solid bench contributions, tremendous ball movement and unselfish play, the Knicks offense is off to a stellar start to the season. Ranking second in the NBA in offensive rating the Knicks are looking more than ready to compete with the leagues best. A rapid fire offense is what most contenders utilize and it seemed to be one of the reasons the Knicks could not get over the hump in recent years. That does not seem to be the case so far this season. The Knicks look to continue their winning streak and superb offensive displays in their next matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies.