As the calendar flips to mid-January 2026, it’s time to assess the New York Knicks’ performance thus far. After a busy offseason and high expectations, have the Knicks lived up to the hype? This report card will dissect each player’s contribution and evaluate head coach Mike Brown’s strategies, providing a comprehensive overview of the team’s journey through the first half of the season.
Guards
Jalen Brunson: A
Jalen Brunson has solidified his position as the undisputed leader of the Knicks. His scoring prowess, playmaking ability, and clutch performances have been instrumental in the team’s success. He’s averaging a career-high in points and assists, demonstrating remarkable growth in his all-around game. Brunson’s leadership on and off the court is undeniable, and he consistently elevates the performance of his teammates. His ability to create his own shot and efficiently run the offense makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Brunson’s impact extends beyond statistics; his unwavering determination and competitive spirit set the tone for the entire team. He has become the face of the franchise and a fan favorite at Madison Square Garden. He’s been relatively healthy, playing consistent minutes and demonstrating remarkable durability, a key factor in his high grade. There’s little doubt that Brunson has firmly placed himself in the conversation for All-NBA consideration.
Quentin Grimes: B
Quentin Grimes continues to be a valuable asset for the Knicks, primarily for his defensive tenacity and improving offensive game. He’s a reliable perimeter defender, often tasked with guarding the opponent’s best scorer. His three-point shooting has become more consistent, making him a credible threat on the offensive end. While he may not always fill up the stat sheet, Grimes’ contributions are crucial to the team’s overall success. He’s improved his ability to drive to the basket and has shown flashes of playmaking potential. His hustle and willingness to do the dirty work make him a favorite among coaches and teammates. Grimes’ role is well-defined, and he consistently executes his assignments with precision and effort. While there’s room for further improvement, Grimes has proven to be a valuable role player for the Knicks.
Miles McBride: C+
Miles McBride has shown flashes of potential, but consistency remains a challenge. His energy and defensive intensity are undeniable, and he often provides a spark off the bench. However, his offensive game is still developing, and he sometimes struggles with decision-making. McBride’s quickness and athleticism allow him to disrupt opposing offenses, and he’s shown the ability to knock down open shots. But he needs to improve his shot selection and ball-handling skills to become a more reliable contributor. McBride’s role on the team is still evolving, and he needs to capitalize on his opportunities to earn more playing time. He has the potential to become a valuable asset for the Knicks, but he needs to continue to refine his skills and improve his consistency.
Forwards
RJ Barrett: B+
RJ Barrett has taken another step forward in his development, showcasing improved scoring efficiency and playmaking ability. He’s become a more consistent threat from beyond the arc, and his ability to attack the basket remains a key component of his game. Barrett’s athleticism and versatility allow him to play multiple positions, providing valuable flexibility for the Knicks. While he still has room to improve defensively, Barrett has shown a greater commitment to that end of the floor. His scoring output has been crucial for the Knicks, especially when other players are struggling. Barrett’s confidence and aggressiveness have grown, and he’s becoming a more reliable option in crunch time. He needs to continue to refine his decision-making and improve his consistency to reach his full potential, but he is trending upwards.
Julius Randle: B-
Julius Randle’s performance has been somewhat inconsistent this season. While he’s still capable of putting up big numbers, his efficiency and decision-making have been questionable at times. He has struggled with turnovers and has not always been a reliable defender. When Randle is playing at his best, he’s a dominant force on both ends of the floor. His ability to score, rebound, and create for others makes him a valuable asset for the Knicks. However, his inconsistency can be frustrating, and he needs to find a way to maintain a higher level of performance on a more consistent basis. His body language and attitude have also been questioned at times. The Knicks need Randle to be a consistent presence if they want to contend for a championship.
Obi Toppin: C
Obi Toppin continues to be an energetic presence off the bench, providing instant offense and athleticism. His high-flying dunks and offensive rebounding are always a crowd-pleaser. However, his overall game remains limited, and he struggles defensively. Toppin’s offensive skills are primarily limited to scoring near the basket, and he hasn’t developed a consistent outside shot. His defensive limitations make it difficult for him to stay on the floor for extended periods. Toppin’s role on the team is well-defined, and he consistently brings energy and excitement off the bench. But he needs to expand his game and improve defensively to become a more valuable contributor. He remains a situational player, best utilized in specific matchups and lineups.
Precious Achiuwa: B
Since arriving via trade, Precious Achiuwa has been a pleasant surprise for the Knicks. His energy, rebounding, and defensive versatility have provided a significant boost to the team’s frontcourt. He has quickly integrated himself into the Knicks’ system and has become a valuable contributor off the bench. Achiuwa’s ability to guard multiple positions and his willingness to do the dirty work have made him a favorite among coaches and teammates. He’s also shown flashes of offensive potential, particularly as a finisher around the basket. While he’s not a star player, Achiuwa’s contributions have been essential to the Knicks’ success. His athleticism and hustle are contagious, and he consistently makes impactful plays on both ends of the floor. He seems to have found a good fit in New York.
Centers
Mitchell Robinson: A-
Mitchell Robinson continues to be a defensive anchor for the Knicks. His shot-blocking, rebounding, and rim protection are essential to the team’s success. He’s one of the league’s best defensive centers, and his presence in the paint deters opponents from attacking the basket. Robinson’s offensive game is limited, but he’s efficient around the basket and sets solid screens. His health has been a concern in the past, but he’s been relatively healthy this season, playing consistent minutes and providing a steady presence in the middle. Robinson’s impact extends beyond statistics; his defensive intensity and rim protection are crucial to the Knicks’ overall defensive strategy. He’s a valuable asset for the team, and his presence makes the Knicks a much tougher opponent. He has improved his free throw shooting, a welcome development for the Knicks.
Isaiah Hartenstein: B+
Isaiah Hartenstein has proven to be a valuable backup center for the Knicks. His rebounding, passing, and defensive awareness have provided a significant boost off the bench. He’s a smart and versatile player who understands his role and executes it effectively. Hartenstein’s ability to pass out of the post and make smart decisions with the ball has been a pleasant surprise. He’s also a solid defender, capable of protecting the rim and guarding multiple positions. Hartenstein’s presence allows the Knicks to maintain a high level of play when Mitchell Robinson is on the bench. He’s a reliable and consistent performer who has exceeded expectations. His basketball IQ and versatility make him a valuable asset for the Knicks.
Head Coach
Mike Brown: B
Mike Brown’s tenure as head coach of the Knicks has been a mixed bag. While the team has shown flashes of brilliance, consistency has been an issue. His offensive schemes are generally effective, but the team sometimes struggles with execution. Brown’s defensive strategies have been solid, but the team needs to improve its overall defensive intensity. His player development has been a strength, as several players have shown significant improvement under his tutelage. However, his rotation decisions have been questioned at times, and he sometimes struggles to make adjustments during games. Brown’s leadership and communication skills are generally good, but he needs to find a way to motivate the team to play with more consistency and intensity. The Knicks’ success in the second half of the season will depend on Brown’s ability to make the necessary adjustments and get the most out of his players. His ability to foster a positive team culture is evident, but the Knicks need to translate that into more consistent on-court performance. He needs to find a way to unlock the full potential of Julius Randle and get him playing at a higher level.
FAQ
How has Jalen Brunson improved this season?
Jalen Brunson has significantly improved his scoring efficiency, playmaking ability, and leadership skills this season. He’s averaging career highs in points and assists, demonstrating his growth as an all-around player. His improved decision-making and clutch performances have solidified his position as the team’s leader.
What are the Knicks’ biggest weaknesses?
The Knicks’ biggest weaknesses include inconsistent play from Julius Randle, defensive lapses, and a lack of consistent three-point shooting from some key players. They also need to improve their overall defensive intensity and reduce turnovers.
How has Precious Achiuwa impacted the team since being traded to the Knicks?
Precious Achiuwa has provided a significant boost to the Knicks’ frontcourt with his energy, rebounding, and defensive versatility. He has quickly integrated himself into the team’s system and has become a valuable contributor off the bench, providing a spark on both ends of the floor.
What is Mike Brown’s biggest challenge as head coach of the Knicks?
Mike Brown’s biggest challenge is to find a way to motivate the team to play with more consistency and intensity. He also needs to improve his rotation decisions and make better in-game adjustments to maximize the team’s potential.
What are the Knicks’ realistic goals for the rest of the season?
The Knicks’ realistic goals for the rest of the season are to secure a top-six seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs and make a deep playoff run. To achieve this, they need to improve their consistency, tighten up their defense, and get more consistent contributions from all players.