The New York Knicks could be considered successful last season after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals.
However, that first major achievement since 2000 wasn’t enough to save Tom Thibodeau’s job, as he was fired immediately following their playoff run.
Mike Brown was selected as the new head coach with expectations to at least match Thibodeau’s accomplishments.
Early reactions from media day suggest Brown’s strategic approach has generated positive responses from players, particularly his offensive concepts despite his reputation as a defensive-minded coach.
Karl-Anthony Towns believes Jalen Brunson could develop a Stephen Curry-style role under Brown’s new offensive system.
Miles McBride added that Brown’s approach offers significantly more freedom compared to the Thibodeau era.
“A lot more player movement, ball movement. Last year, at times, we got stagnant and we depended on a lot of isolation shots, which is tough down the stretch,” McBride explained.
“This year, it’s going to be a little more freedom with the movement and a lot of guys cutting, guys getting active,” he continued.
McBride’s assessment has statistical support. Last season, the Knicks ranked third-lowest in three-point attempts league-wide with only 34.0 per game, indicating their reliance on less efficient shot selection.
The team’s offensive limitations were particularly evident in their dependence on Brunson’s individual creation. The superstar generated 12.4 two-point attempts per game, ranking fourth-highest among NBA guards.
Deuce McBride is looking forward to playing in Mike Brown's offense:
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) September 25, 2025
"A lot more player movement, ball movement. Last year, at times, we got stagnant and we depended on a lot of isolation shots, which is tough down the stretch.
This year, it's going to be a little more freedom… pic.twitter.com/Z15wyhqyxr
The Knicks made meaningful roster improvements throughout the summer that align with Brown’s offensive philosophy, especially if increased shooting is prioritized.
They added depth with Guerschon Yabusele, Jordan Clarkson, and recently Malcolm Brogdon.
Yabusele and Clarkson both shot above 35% from three-point range, while Brogdon maintained 38.8% accuracy throughout his career. These additions provide the shooting foundation necessary for Brown’s system to succeed.
The roster improvements suggest the Knicks have the personnel to implement Brown’s movement-heavy approach effectively.
If the transition occurs smoothly, the franchise has legitimate potential to return to the Eastern Conference Finals.
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