The New York Knicks have found a different gear this postseason. A consistent playoff threat ever since they signed Jalen Brunson, they’ve gone one step further seemingly every year, and this postseason has been their pièce de résistance.
Firing on all cylinders, they have become one of the most lethal units in NBA history, and Karl-Anthony Towns has been among the biggest reasons why. Despite completely altering his playstyle, Towns still credited his star point guard as the spearhead.
Why Karl-Anthony Towns Views Jalen Brunson as the Knicks’ Focal Point
One of the most unique prospects of the 2010s decade, Towns was a no-brainer as a first overall pick given his skill set. A true 7-footer consistently shooting nearly 40% from distance, he could mix it with guard-like speed and a traditional center-like size.
That combination made him a virtual mismatch in any scenario. But motor, defense, and foul trouble limited his ceiling somewhat. As a result, even when he joined the Knicks, there were some question marks about how he would function.
So far this year, he’s answered all those doubts and then some. Becoming the best version of himself, he’s developed as a passer and become the central offensive engine. But he’s also paired that with the best defense of his career.
As a result, New York has become only the second team in NBA history to win 13 straight playoff games. Still, even with his contributions, KAT believes the head of the snake remains Brunson.
Speaking to the media ahead of Game 3, he broke down the dexterity and the playstyle that make the reigning Eastern Conference Finals MVP so effective.
“He has great footwork. His footwork when he gets into the paint and his ability to manipulate the offense and be deceptive in his dribbling, attack, and his pull-up game as well. It truly makes him tough to guard.”
As the clear-cut leader of the team, Brunson is averaging 26.6 points per game alongside 6.3 assists.
Towns, on the other hand, is at 17.3 points per game and 5.6 assists. However, he has been exceptional on defense, with an efficiency that is hard to describe.
Shooting 57% from the field, he’s also knocking down 48.1% of his 3-pointers. That efficiency has allowed him to utterly dominate without taking too many shot attempts.
As a result, it has directly translated to winning basketball for the Knicks, as they truly embrace a 5-out style.
But his deference to Brunson remains steadfast.
“Then, when he finally gets into the paint, he uses physicality to create space, to get his floater off, or to get to a scoop layup. So his ability, his footwork with his touch around the rim obviously make him a tough matchup for anybody.”
Brunson has been the squad’s leader and already has three All-Star selections and an NBA Cup MVP on his resume.
However, with the way the NBA Finals have gone so far, if the Knicks pull off two more victories, Towns could be the one to walk away with the Finals MVP distinction.
