The Knicks have shown they’re not a conservative team that celebrates past success. The firing of head coach Tom Thibodeau after the franchise’s first Eastern Conference Finals appearance this century didn’t save his job.
Mike Brown built his reputation as a defensive-minded coach who has adapted (some) to modern offensive philosophies. Still, the combination of Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson may be a defensive problem with no solution, which is why they’re on the list of top duos in the NBA that may need to break up.
The talent is undeniable offensively, but can the Knicks win at the highest level while trying to guard pick-and-rolls with the two?
Conversely, if they surround Brunson with Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, Mitchell Robinson and Davis, the defense could be a problem for the rest of the NBA. Davis isn’t an offensive downgrade, though he’s not a tremendous outside shooter (to be fair, Towns has struggled from deep under Brown).
The risk for New York is Davis’ health, but if the team can successfully manage his minutes, the Knicks could be more formidable in the postseason with the defensive upgrade. Hardy, Williams and Exum (working back from a knee injury) can viably replace Kolek and Dadiet; Yabusele has yet to thrive with the team.