I’m keeping an eye on how much this lineup is used the rest of the year. I’m highly intrigued by this formula in the same way that in 2024 Brunson, Donte, Hart, OG and Hartenstein was working. I felt like if OG doesn’t get hurt in the semi, Knicks make a real run at it. I think the current 5 I highlighted is as good or better than that group. The simple formula of defense, shooting, offensive rebounding and toughness around Brunson just makes sense.
Doesn’t mean KAT (or another second option) can’t be a big part of this. We need scoring and shot creation to take the pressure off of Brunson. KAT gives us scoring but we still don’t have the additional shot creation. Ideally it’s a backup guard/ wing. I believe we need those things to get through a season. Otherwise Brunson gets warned down. But in the playoffs, riding Brunson with all of the shooting, defense and offensive rebounding around him can win a title. I’m not completely out on this team, I just think it has to be analyzed a different way. It may not always include KAT playing big minutes, but as long as he can provide some non-Brunson minutes with big scoring, he’s useful. I do think there’s a contending formula with this group and I am just hoping we get a chance to see it more.
