The New York Knicks have been rock solid this season, as they are performing well in the upper echelon of the Eastern Conference. Unfortunately for the Knicks, they have recently slid down the standings, third behind the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics.
Considering their status before the season as favorites alongside the Cleveland Cavaliers, people are now looking for the reasons behind their slightly disappointing campaign. Former Knicks legend Carmelo Anthony believes he has the answer.
The Knicks could be overreliant on Brunson
Jalen Brunson has been the Knicks' superstar guard for a few seasons now. He has emerged as one of the best players in the Eastern Conference for how he has carried the Knicks.
Under Tom Thibodeau, Brunson was stellar as the number one option. He was a natural in the role, which led to him maintaining his status through the years. Now that he is playing under Mike Brown, most people thought the Knicks would switch up their system.
More: Jalen Brunson's Player of the Month win gets surprising reaction from a former Finals MVP
Brunson remains the number one option, and it could be argued that the system is overreliant on him. Even Anthony, who was the number one option with the Knicks, thinks the current roster is too dependent on their superstar point guard.
"I'm watching the game, the late-game offense becomes so predictable. The shot creation, the burden on Jalen Brunson is too heavy on a night to night basis. The margins are very thin, the Knicks miss shots that turn to outlets the other way," Anthony said on NBA on NBC.
"When you just focus on Jalen Brunson, there is no movement, there is no offense, there is stagnation. I don't want to say punked, but they're getting punked."
The Knicks are one of the strongest teams in the league, especially on offense. With Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, they have a duo of star players who can score 30+ points per game.
Players like OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges are also positive offensively. If Brown can mix up his offense a bit, he could take advantage of the talent on his roster, and erase the narrative of Brunson being the only option.
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