IMAGINE THIS:Can New York Make a Deeper Playoff Run with Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson at the Helm?
The New York Knicks have long been one of the NBA’s most storied franchises, but over the past two decades, they’ve struggled to recapture the glory days of their past. That narrative is shifting, however, with the emergence of Jalen Brunson as a bona fide star and the recent addition of Karl-Anthony Towns, a move that signals New York’s intention to compete at the highest level. With this new-look core, the question on everyone’s mind is: can the Knicks advance further in the postseason than they have in recent years?
Jalen Brunson has transformed the Knicks’ backcourt since arriving from Dallas. In just a short time, he’s become the team’s emotional and strategic leader, averaging over 24 points and six assists per game while consistently delivering in clutch moments. His ability to control the pace of the game, create offense under pressure, and lead with poise has been instrumental in New York’s rise in the Eastern Conference standings.
Now, with the acquisition of Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks are pairing Brunson’s steady hand with a dynamic offensive big man who adds an entirely new dimension to the team’s attack. Towns, a three-time All-Star and one of the most versatile centers in the league, brings elite shooting, rebounding, and playmaking for his position. He can stretch the floor with his three-point range, post up against smaller defenders, and even initiate offense as a secondary playmaker.
The duo of Brunson and Towns provides the Knicks with a potent inside-out combination that few teams in the East can match. Their skill sets complement each other: Brunson thrives in pick-and-roll situations, while Towns is one of the league’s most effective screen-setters and pick-and-pop threats. Together, they can dissect opposing defenses with a mix of finesse, power, and high basketball IQ.
However, while the talent is undeniable, several factors will determine just how far New York can go. Chemistry will be key, especially as Towns integrates into a system that has traditionally emphasized physical defense and team-oriented offense under head coach Tom Thibodeau. Towns, who has faced criticism in the past for his defense and leadership, will need to buy into the Knicks’ gritty identity to maximize this partnership.
Additionally, the supporting cast — including RJ Barrett, Josh Hart, and Mitchell Robinson — will need to maintain their high-level contributions on both ends of the floor. Depth and health, as always, will play major roles in a long playoff run.
In a competitive Eastern Conference featuring heavyweights like the Celtics, Bucks, and Heat, nothing will come easy. But with Jalen Brunson orchestrating the offense and Karl-Anthony Towns anchoring the frontcourt, the Knicks may finally have the firepower and star presence to make a legitimate run to the Eastern Conference Finals or beyond.