UPDATE: The New York Knicks kicked off their season with a thrilling victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Coach Mike Brown‘s debut. This win, coming at 7:30 p.m. ET on November 5, 2025, raises hopes for a fresh start as the Knicks aim to contend for the Eastern Conference title.
After a tumultuous offseason marked by significant changes, including the shocking trade of Julius Randle to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks are embracing a new identity. “Good first win,” Brown stated post-game, acknowledging the team’s potential for growth. The Knicks, previously stagnant against top teams, showcased their ability to challenge the East’s elite.
Early signs indicate that Mikal Bridges has adapted well to Brown’s fast-paced system, averaging career highs in field goal and 3-point percentages. However, the team’s overall performance remains uneven, with a bottom-10 pace through their first seven games.
Brown’s coaching style prioritizes ball movement and quick transitions, but adapting has not been seamless. Sources indicate that Towns, despite a season-high of 33 points against the Washington Wizards, is struggling with a shooting percentage of just 40.8%, well below his career averages. His discomfort in a new role raises questions about the Knicks’ offensive cohesiveness.
“A lot of it is just taking them time to figure out the offense,” an East executive told ESPN.
Meanwhile, Josh Hart faces challenges adjusting to a bench role while dealing with a nerve issue in his shooting hand. This injury, a result of a prior finger injury, adds to the Knicks’ concerns, as does the health of center Mitchell Robinson, who is on a load management plan due to his chronic injury history.
Despite these hurdles, the Knicks are still positioned as a co-favorite to emerge from the East. Their competitors, including the Cavaliers and the Orlando Magic, have not performed as expected, leaving the Knicks with a unique opportunity. An Eastern Conference scout noted, “They’ll win a bunch of games because of talent, but there’s a lot more drama than they would’ve thought.”
The Knicks’ shooting strategy has shifted significantly under Brown, with 48% of their shots now coming from beyond the arc, a stark contrast to their previous season’s ranking of 28th in 3-point attempts. This new approach has propelled them to a tie for third in 3-point makes this season, despite a slight dip in shooting accuracy.
As the Knicks continue to navigate this transition, fans are left wondering how injuries and adjustments will affect their playoff ambitions. Following their opening night success, the team must now maintain momentum and address their challenges. Upcoming games will be critical in determining their standing in the Eastern Conference.
Next Game: The Knicks will face Randle and the Timberwolves again on Wednesday, November 5, at 7:30 p.m. ET, providing a crucial opportunity for both teams as they seek to solidify their positions early in the season.
As the Knicks adapt to new dynamics, the urgency to establish themselves as serious contenders grows. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this new-look Knicks team can seize their moment in the competitive landscape of the NBA.