As the New York Knicks reach the midway point of the 2025-26 NBA season, it’s time to assess their performance thus far. With a revamped roster and a new head coach in Mike Brown, expectations were high. This report card will delve into the individual performances of key players and evaluate Brown’s impact on the team’s overall success.
The State of the Knicks at Midseason
The Knicks currently sit at with a record of . While this places them firmly in the playoff picture, the team has shown flashes of brilliance interspersed with periods of inconsistency. Injuries have played a role, but the coaching staff is expected to navigate these challenges effectively. The team’s offensive rating is , while their defensive rating is , suggesting a need for improved offensive efficiency.
Grading the Players
Jalen Brunson: A
Jalen Brunson continues to be the engine that drives the Knicks’ offense. His scoring prowess, playmaking ability, and leadership qualities have been invaluable. Brunson is averaging points and assists per game, solidifying his status as a top-tier point guard in the league. His efficiency remains high, and he consistently makes clutch plays down the stretch. Brunson’s relentless drive and competitive spirit set the tone for the entire team.
RJ Barrett: B+
RJ Barrett has shown significant improvement this season, particularly in his shot selection and defensive intensity. He’s averaging points per game while contributing on the boards and playing tenacious defense. While his three-point shooting percentage () could still use some refinement, Barrett’s overall game has become more well-rounded and impactful. He’s proving to be a reliable second option on offense and a valuable asset on both ends of the floor.
Julius Randle: B
Julius Randle’s performance has been a bit of a mixed bag. While he’s still putting up solid numbers, averaging points and rebounds per game, his efficiency has fluctuated. His decision-making at times has been questionable, leading to turnovers and missed opportunities. However, Randle remains a key component of the Knicks’ offense, and when he’s playing at his best, he’s a force to be reckoned with. Consistency will be key for Randle in the second half of the season.
Mitchell Robinson: B+
Mitchell Robinson’s impact on the defensive end cannot be overstated. His rim protection, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities are crucial to the Knicks’ defensive identity. Robinson is averaging rebounds and blocks per game, anchoring the Knicks’ interior defense. His offensive game is still limited, but he’s effective as a lob threat and in put-back situations. Robinson’s presence in the paint makes life difficult for opposing offenses.
Immanuel Quickley: A-
Immanuel Quickley has emerged as a vital spark plug off the bench. His scoring ability, ball-handling skills, and defensive energy provide a significant boost to the Knicks’ second unit. Quickley is averaging points per game and has shown remarkable improvement in his decision-making. He’s a reliable scorer and playmaker, and his ability to create his own shot makes him a valuable asset in late-game situations. Quickley’s consistent performance has solidified his role as a key contributor.
Quentin Grimes: C+
Quentin Grimes has shown flashes of potential as a three-and-D player, but his consistency has been lacking. While he’s a capable defender, his offensive output has been inconsistent. Grimes is averaging points per game, but his shooting percentages have been streaky. He needs to improve his consistency on both ends of the floor to become a more reliable contributor.
Josh Hart: B
Josh Hart continues to be a valuable role player for the Knicks. His rebounding, defensive tenacity, and hustle plays provide a significant boost to the team. Hart is averaging rebounds per game and consistently makes winning plays. While his offensive game is limited, he’s a reliable passer and a capable finisher around the basket. Hart’s energy and effort are contagious, making him a valuable asset to the team.
Isaiah Hartenstein: B-
Isaiah Hartenstein has provided solid minutes as Mitchell Robinson’s backup. His rebounding, passing, and defensive awareness have been valuable. Hartenstein is averaging rebounds per game and has shown good chemistry with the Knicks’ second unit. While his scoring is limited, he’s a reliable presence in the paint and a capable defender.
Evan Fournier: D
Evan Fournier has struggled to find his rhythm this season. His shooting has been inconsistent, and he’s had difficulty finding a consistent role in the rotation. Fournier is averaging points per game, but his efficiency has been well below his career averages. He needs to improve his consistency and find ways to contribute even when his shot isn’t falling.
The Rest of the Roster: Incomplete
Players like Jericho Sims, Miles McBride, and DaQuan Jeffries have seen limited playing time and haven’t had a significant impact on the team’s performance. It’s difficult to accurately assess their contributions based on their limited opportunities.
Grading Coach Mike Brown
Grade: B+
Mike Brown has done a commendable job in his first season as the Knicks’ head coach. He’s implemented a more structured offensive system and instilled a greater emphasis on defensive accountability. The team’s defensive rating has improved significantly under his guidance, and he’s done a good job of managing the rotation and maximizing the strengths of his players. While there have been some questionable decisions at times, Brown has generally made sound strategic choices. His ability to connect with the players and foster a positive team environment has been crucial to the Knicks’ success. However, the true test will come in the playoffs, where his coaching acumen will be put to the ultimate test. He has shown a willingness to adapt and adjust his game plans based on opponent matchups, a quality that bodes well for the Knicks’ future.
Areas for Improvement
For the Knicks to make a deep playoff run, they need to address several key areas. First, they need to improve their offensive consistency, particularly in late-game situations. Second, they need to reduce their turnover rate and make better decisions with the ball. Third, they need to find more consistent contributions from their bench. Finally, they need to stay healthy and avoid significant injuries to key players. Mike Brown must continue to develop the younger players and find ways to integrate them more seamlessly into the rotation. The Knicks have the potential to be a serious contender, but they need to continue to improve and refine their game in the second half of the season.
Looking Ahead
The second half of the season will be crucial for the Knicks as they look to solidify their playoff position and build momentum for the postseason. The Eastern Conference is highly competitive, and every game will be important. The Knicks will need to continue to improve on both ends of the floor and stay focused on their goals. With Jalen Brunson leading the way and Mike Brown at the helm, the Knicks have the potential to make some noise in the playoffs. The development of RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley will be key to their success, as will the consistent performance of Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson. The Knicks’ fans are hungry for a championship, and this team has the potential to deliver.
FAQ
How has Mike Brown changed the Knicks’ offensive strategy?
Mike Brown has implemented a more structured offensive system that emphasizes ball movement, player spacing, and attacking the basket. He’s also empowered Jalen Brunson to be the primary playmaker and decision-maker on offense. This has led to a more balanced and efficient offensive attack compared to previous seasons.
What are the Knicks’ biggest weaknesses at the midseason mark?
The Knicks’ biggest weaknesses include offensive inconsistency, high turnover rate, and inconsistent bench production. They need to improve their ability to score consistently in late-game situations and reduce their turnovers. They also need to find more reliable contributions from their bench players to provide a spark when the starters are struggling.
Which player has been the most improved for the Knicks this season?
RJ Barrett has shown the most significant improvement this season. He’s become a more efficient scorer, a more tenacious defender, and a more well-rounded player overall. His improved shot selection and increased defensive intensity have made him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor.
How important is Mitchell Robinson to the Knicks’ success?
Mitchell Robinson is extremely important to the Knicks’ success. His rim protection, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities are crucial to their defensive identity. He anchors the Knicks’ interior defense and makes life difficult for opposing offenses. His presence in the paint is essential for the Knicks to be a successful team.
What are the Knicks’ realistic goals for the rest of the season?
The Knicks’ realistic goals for the rest of the season should be to secure a top-six seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs and make a deep playoff run. They have the talent and coaching to compete with the best teams in the conference, but they need to continue to improve and refine their game. Making it to the second round of the playoffs should be considered a successful season.
