The New York Knicks’ Offensive Performance
The New York Knicks are experiencing a remarkable offensive performance this season, newly guided by head coach Mike Brown’s strategy, generating more than 120 points per game and boasting a third-place ranking in efficiency. Despite facing the challenge of injuries among several key players, the team has managed an impressive 11-6 start.
Karl-Anthony Towns’ Inconsistency
Yet, amidst this success lies a significant concern: the inconsistency of Karl-Anthony Towns. The former top overall draft pick is currently averaging 22.4 points per game, with shooting percentages that could mark career lows if these trends continue—specifically, 51.7 percent from two-point range and a concerning 32.6 percent from beyond the arc.
While he has shown flashes of brilliance with high-scoring games of 39, 37, and 33 points in victories against the Heat, Nets, and Wizards, these standout moments contrast sharply with periods of underwhelming performance.
Analysis of Towns’ Shooting
A closer examination of Towns’ two-point shooting reveals issues that may be tied to the increased spacing afforded by the new offensive setup. Earlier in the season, Towns dealt with a Grade 2 quad strain, which likely impacted his effectiveness on the court. Initially, he shot below 40 percent on two-point attempts, but returning to his normal explosiveness has improved that number to his career average of 57 percent in subsequent games. The film indicates a marked difference in his mobility from the season’s start to now, highlighting this recovery process.
However, Towns’ struggles with three-point shooting remain pronounced. Despite an uptick in the volume of his attempts this season, he is not finding success, shooting only 26.2 percent compared to 46.7 percent last season. Particularly concerning is his 1-13 shooting from the right wing, alongside a general decline in effectiveness from all areas of the perimeter.
Impact of New Officiating Guidelines
Interestingly, despite the new officiating guidelines that favor shooters and an increase in wide-open opportunities, Towns is not capitalizing as expected. Reports suggest that his shooting form has not changed noticeably, nor is he extending his range beyond his usual comfort zone. The potential discomfort caused by Brown’s system raises questions about whether it could be affecting his shooting rhythm; Towns himself mentioned earlier this season the need to clarify his role within the new framework.
Conclusion
While the Knicks are playing at a slightly faster pace, leading to possible adjustments in Towns’ responsibilities, any dramatic impact on his shooting seems unlikely. Often, the simplest explanation—such as a temporary shooting slump—can provide the most accuracy. Fans are understandably anxious about his performance, especially in a season laden with pressure. However, concerns about Towns finding his scoring touch may ultimately be overblown as he is likely to break through this dip in form soon.
