Knicks’ New Offense Hopes to Spark Fast Start in 2025-26 Season

TARRYTOWN, N.Y. — As the New York Knicks prepare to kick off the 2025-26 NBA season, the anticipation around their revamped offense, led by head coach Mike Brown, has reached a fever pitch. The Knicks showcased their new principles during the preseason, particularly in a standout play involving All-Stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns during an exhibition game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

In the first quarter, Brunson executed a spectacular pick-and-roll with Towns that embodied the fast-paced play the Knicks have emphasized since training camp began. The rhythm of the play reflected an intention to engage all players quickly, with Brunson using a handoff from Miles “Deuce” McBride just four seconds into the shot clock.

“We want to get into our offense faster this season,” Brunson stated, expressing confidence in the new system. The Knicks averaged 66 dribble handoffs per 100 possessions during the preseason, significantly higher than the previous season’s rate of 23, putting them at the forefront of the league.

Brown’s coaching philosophy, influenced by his time with the Golden State Warriors, focuses on empowering players to make quick decisions rather than sticking strictly to set plays. This approach has seen the Knicks adapt to a quicker pace, as evidenced by their improved transition offense.

Despite the effectiveness displayed in the pre-season, Brown indicated that the team still has work to do. “Every cut, every move, you want to be a scoring threat, and right now we’re not quite there,” Brown noted, highlighting areas for improvement in execution.

With the regular season beginning Wednesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the stakes are high. Both teams are seen as favorites in the Eastern Conference, making this opening matchup crucial for playoff positioning. Towns, who has expressed uncertainty about his role in the new offense, is keen to clarify his contributions. “Honestly, I don’t know—but we’re figuring it out,” he told reporters.

Last season, the Knicks reached the Eastern Conference Finals but made the bold decision to fire head coach Tom Thibodeau, believing Brown could elevate them further. With a championship on their minds, they are eager to see if Brown’s innovative methods will lead to success in the unforgiving landscape of the NBA.