Knicks Prepare for Versatile Title Defense with Possible Role Shifts

Last year’s playoffs might have been just the beginning for the New York Knicks. Their postseason run revealed a fresh offensive style that powered them to a championship, born out of necessity after falling behind 2-1 against the Hawks in the first round. Now, with a full training camp and preseason ahead, the Knicks have time to refine and build on that approach.

"I feel like we can do a lot more, do a lot of different things," guard Jalen Brunson said following the team’s first practice of the season on Tuesday. "We unlocked something last year when it mattered, and it worked. It’ll be exciting to integrate it from the start this season."

Adjusting Roles Around Karl-Anthony Towns

The biggest shift involved how Karl-Anthony Towns was used offensively, positioning him at the elbows as a playmaking hub. This took some pressure off Brunson, letting him operate more off the ball while highlighting Towns’ passing skills. This setup also opened space for OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges to excel as cutters and screeners, boosting the Knicks’ offensive efficiency dramatically.

Coach Mike Brown confirmed this role will remain central but hinted at new variations. "We’re definitely using KAT at the elbow more than last regular season. After working with the group for a year, we know better what players like OG and Mikal can do. We want to keep involving them at the top of the floor," Brown explained.

Brown also considered other possibilities, saying, "We have great cutters with size. Maybe Andre Drummond could facilitate too. Maybe OG shifts to center more. There are many ways we can approach both offense and defense, but nothing is set in stone."

New Potential Roles for Anunoby and Bridges

Last season, the Knicks leaned heavily on Anunoby and Bridges for corner three-point shots—leading the NBA in corner attempts with 199 and 198 respectively. That was a core part of their offense.

Yet, both players grew as ball handlers and slashers during the playoffs, with Anunoby especially stepping up as a scorer off the dribble and delivering career-best performances. Allowing him to spend more time away from the corners and into the middle might unlock his best, possibly All-Star-level, game.

The idea of using Anunoby as a small-ball center gains traction, especially since Drummond is the only guaranteed backup center behind Towns on the roster.

Brown noted, "We’ll carry over a lot from last year but try new things too. What worked in the playoffs might not fit the regular season. We need to stay flexible, evolve, and hopefully peak near playoff time with confidence to push forward."

Team Chemistry Drives Adaptability

This ability to adapt depended on a veteran group willing to adjust roles for the team’s success. Open and honest communication was key.

"As a group, we realized we need each other to win and to be on the same page," Brunson said. "You don’t know when things will click, but if you keep working every day, eventually, it will break open."

Now, the Knicks have a new challenge to tackle as they aim to defend their title with fresh tactics and evolving roles.