For the first time since the 2012-13 “Knickstape” era, the New York Knicks have remained undefeated at Madison Square Garden through their first seven home games following a 133-120 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies.
Initially struggling with a 2-3 start, the Knicks appear to have overcome early season growing pains under new coaching. Now, their offense is in top gear, securing five consecutive wins and bringing their record to 7-3, placing them second in the Eastern Conference, just behind their anticipated 2025 first-round playoff rivals, the Detroit Pistons.
The past five wins were dominant double-digit triumphs. The Knicks’ offense is overpowering, scoring over 130 points in three consecutive games for the first time in franchise history.
However, head coach Mike Brown recognizes room for growth. He noted, “I thought the first half tonight we were really good. We had plenty of ball reversals, we touched the paint multiple times. We sprayed it. I thought, offensively, we looked really good in the first half,” he remarked. “The second half, we didn’t move the ball as much. We didn’t space the floor as much. … Our decisions weren’t quick in the second half.”
The Knicks delivered a formidable showing last night, hitting a season-high 22 three-pointers at 40% accuracy, nearing their franchise record of 24 threes in a game. By the end of the third quarter, they had amassed 114 points, their most in three quarters since 2008.
Jalen Brunson scored 30-plus for the fifth time this season, achieving his most efficient game yet, shooting 11-for-19 and making a team-high six threes at 66.7% from beyond the arc.
Mikal Bridges continues to shine as an understated team hero, excelling on both ends. He followed in scoring with 22 points, including three three-pointers, and achieved a season-high four steals against the Grizzlies. Bridges is experiencing career-best performance from distance, averaging 2.7 threes per game at an efficient 47.4%.
Though they trail the Pistons in the Eastern Conference, the Knicks lead the East in terms of net rating. Their +9.5 rating stands fourth in the league, significantly ahead of Detroit’s +5.3.
This offensive surge is more than just luck. Mike Brown has transformed the team’s offensive philosophy, making them the top three-point shooters in the league. They are tied with the Cavaliers for most three-pointers made at 17.0 per game, but shoot more efficiently at 38.5% compared to Cleveland’s 36.1%. The team averages 44.1 attempts per game, a significant increase from last year’s 34.0 under Tom Thibodeau.
It’s not just their shooting that has improved; the Knicks’ offensive strategy has evolved with increased ball movement and bench contributions. New York averages 310.9 passes per game, a +29.7 increase from last year. Bench scoring has risen sharply, with the second unit now averaging 31.9 points compared to last season’s 19.9.
The Knicks are in an excellent offensive position. If Brown and his squad maintain these performances, they will be formidable not only in the East, but across the entire NBA.
The Knicks aim to extend their historic offensive streak and remain unbeaten at home as they face the Orlando Magic tonight at the Garden.
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