The New York Knicks are entering the new season with renewed optimism, and much of that excitement centers on Karl-Anthony Towns. After a strong debut year in New York, head coach Mike Brown has made it clear that Towns won’t be confined to a traditional role. Instead, the All-Star big man will be unleashed across the floor in ways that could transform the Knicks’ offense.
Speaking at Media Day, Brown emphasized that Towns will not be limited to playing center.
“We’re going to move him around a lot,” Brown said. “He’s not just going to play the five. He’ll be all over the floor; and his ability to shoot the basketball will show because we’re going to move him around.”
“KAT, we’re going to move him around a lot. He’s not just going to play the 5. He’ll be all over the floor – his ability to shoot the basketball will show because we’re going to move him around.”
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Brown drew comparisons to his time in Sacramento, where he built an offense around Domantas Sabonis’ versatility. While Towns brings a different skill set, his shooting range and passing ability make him equally dangerous as a hub in multiple spots on the court.
Towns’ first season in New York was a statement. He averaged 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, while shooting over 52% from the field and 42% from three. His production carried into the playoffs, where he posted nearly 20 points and 9 rebounds per game during the Knicks’ run to the Eastern Conference Finals, their first in over two decades.
Teammates have already praised his impact. Point guard Jalen Brunson called Towns “impossible to compare,” noting how his presence opened up the floor for everyone else.
Under former coach Tom Thibodeau, Towns was often used in more traditional post-up sets, limiting his perimeter game. Brown’s system promises to change that. Expect to see Towns operating from the elbows, stretching defenses to the corners, and even initiating offense in transition.
The Knicks are also exploring lineups that pair Towns with Mitchell Robinson, giving New York size and rim protection while allowing Towns to float to the perimeter. That versatility could make the Knicks one of the most unpredictable offenses in the East.
After falling short in the Conference Finals against Indiana last season, the Knicks are determined to take the next step. With a projected starting five of Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Towns, and Robinson, the team has balance, depth, and star power.
For Brown, the key is maximizing Towns’ unique skill set.
“This whole thing of using KAT as a hub for the offense is going to completely change everything for this Knicks team,” he said.
If Towns thrives in this expanded role, the Knicks’ 52-year championship drought may finally be within reach.
