Mike Brown, New York Knicks
Mike Brown, New York Knicks
The New York Knicks came into the season as one of the favorites to come out of the Eastern Conference.
However, they’ve stuttered for stretches, as the roster adjusts to Mike Brown’s style of play, particularly on the offensive side of the floor. Even though they haven’t been at their best, the Knicks are still third in the East, half a game behind the Boston Celtics.
In a recent episode of FanDuel TV’s “Run It Back,” DeMarcus Cousins claimed New York was one piece away from being a genuine contender. He cited the lack of an additional scoring option as New York’s biggest need.
“I do think they still have things to figure out,” Cousins said of the Knicks. “But on paper, they have the talent. They’ve been together long enough. They have the experience together. It’s just about remaining consistent. The East is up and down right now…I do think they’re a piece away. And, I do think they need another scoring option. I think it’s a lot of pressure on Brunson every night to be the go-to guy. So I do think they need one more go-to guy.”
Brunson has carried a heavy load for the Knicks in recent years. The additions of Mikal Bridges, Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby over the past few years was supposed to ease that scoring burden. Brown’s entire offense is built around “we not me.”
Still, it’s clear that another player who can create for himself and others, score off the dribble and knock down shots off the catch would elevate the Knicks to a new level.
Knicks Could Target Chris Boucher
According to James L. Edwards of The Athletic, the Knicks could look to shore up their front court in the buyout market. Edwards cited Chris Boucher as a potential target.
“Boucherisn’t perfect,” Edwards wrote. “He’s 6-foot-8 and weighs 200 pounds soaking wet.He’s not a physical presence by any means, but he can hit an open 3 and blocks shots.Would he want to come to New York and only play in garbage time or if an injury happens? However, for the Knicks, Boucher would be an upgrade over Hukporti this season and does have postseason experience, having won NBA titles in 2018 and 2019.”
Boucher is far from the go-to option Cousins is talking about. Nevertheless, he would provide scoring and depth at a position of need. Finding another go-to contributor would need to happen in the summer, if at all.
Knicks Have Enough Talent To Contend
Even without adding another go-to option, the Knicks have more than enough talent to contend at the highest level. In order for that to happen, though, there needs to be complete buy-in on Brown’s offensive and defensive system.
If the Knicks commit to the increased ball movement and egalitarian offensive principles, they could become an unstoppable force. And while it’s been a bumpy ride, there have been clear signs that things are starting to click.
Both the first and second seeds in the East are still within reach for New York. The higher they can finish in the standings, the better their chances of a deep postseason run will be. But with Towns and Brunson leading the way, it’s hard to look past them as a genuine contender this season.