A Knicks spokesperson just confirmed Taylor Swift’s long-standing fandom for the organization and Madison Square Garden, even expressing appreciation for her support. But let’s be real: that feel-good soundbite isn’t what’s making or breaking the Knicks’ early season. What truly matters is how their key guys are performing and who’s healthy enough to be on the court.
KAT is Balling Out, Mostly
Coach Mike Brown is clearly pleased with Karl-Anthony Towns’ overall play to start the season. He’s been doing “so many things well for us,” according to Brown. We’re talking rebounding, running, and his three-point shot is looking solid. Brown also highlighted his passing, especially when he’s not trying for “the home run ball,” plus his communication and the great energy he’s bringing every night.
Even with the contract situation hovering, Brown says he never doubted Towns’ professionalism. He told reporters he can’t even tell it’s on KAT’s mind, pointing to strong performances in both games and practices. For Brown, it’s about what happens on the court, while the contract talks are for Leon Rose and Jim Dolan to handle.
That’s not to say Towns is perfect. Brown did pinpoint a couple of areas for improvement: his pick-and-roll defense needs work, specifically “putting his chest in front of the ball,” and he needs to cut down on trying to make the “home run pass” all the time when he’s the offensive hub. Still, the positives far outweigh the negatives, and Brown is “really pleased with the way that KAT is playing overall.”
Ankle Woes and Rookie Surprises
It’s not all sunshine and pop star endorsements for the Knicks, though. Josh Hart is sidelined with a sore right ankle and will miss his second straight game this Saturday in Cleveland. Losing Hart is a tough blow, especially this early in the season when you’re trying to build momentum.
But sometimes injuries open doors. Against Chicago, rookie Dalton Knecht unexpectedly got playing time. Coach Brown admitted it was “just a gut feel,” since Knecht was actually down for “zero minutes” on his official minute sheet. Even Jalen Brunson commented on Knecht’s “impressive debut,” which is high praise from a guy like Brunson.
The Knicks are set to face Cleveland this Saturday, and with Hart sidelined, all eyes will be on how players like Towns step up. Can they keep building on KAT’s dominant start, or will these early season bumps prove too much as the team tries to find its rhythm?
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Posting and Toasting.
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