As the New York Knicks approach the midway point of the 2023-2024 NBA season, the team’s performance has been a tale of two halves. On one end, they have firmly established themselves as one of the league’s top defensive squads, continuing the identity they have cultivated under head coach Tom Thibodeau. On the other hand, inconsistency on the offensive end continues to plague the team, raising questions about their ability to contend in the competitive Eastern Conference.
Defensive Foundation Remains Solid
If there is one area where the Knicks have excelled, it is on the defensive side of the ball. Through the first 30 games, New York has maintained its status as one of the league’s elite defensive teams, ranking in the top five in defensive rating. Their ability to limit opponents’ scoring has been a hallmark of the team’s success, and they have carried this identity from the previous season.
At the heart of their defensive efforts is center Mitchell Robinson, who has once again been a dominant presence in the paint. Robinson, one of the best shot blockers in the league, has been an immovable object in the low post, contesting shots and cleaning the glass at a high level. His rim protection has been key to the Knicks’ ability to stifle opponents, and he has averaged over 2 blocks per game while anchoring the defense in the middle.
The Knicks’ perimeter defense has also been impressive, with Jalen Brunson and RJ Barrett stepping up as defenders on the wings. While neither player is known for being an elite lockdown defender, both have been effective in limiting opposing shooters and disrupting passing lanes. Barrett, in particular, has shown marked improvement in his defensive awareness and is becoming a more well-rounded two-way player.
New York’s defensive system under Thibodeau continues to emphasize physicality and intelligence, and the results are clear. The Knicks rank among the league’s best in defensive efficiency, opponents’ field goal percentage, and limiting points in the paint. The team’s ability to stay disciplined in rotations and communicate effectively has helped them neutralize some of the most potent offenses in the league.
Offensive Inconsistencies Hold the Team Back
Despite their impressive defense, the Knicks’ offense has been their Achilles’ heel. While they are a middle-of-the-pack offensive team in terms of points per game, their lack of consistent scoring and ball movement has left them vulnerable against top-tier defenses. Through 30 games, the Knicks have struggled to find a cohesive offensive rhythm, especially in half-court settings.
Much of the offensive burden has fallen on the shoulders of Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson, with the two serving as the primary scoring options. Randle has been the team’s leading scorer, averaging over 25 points per game, but his efficiency has been erratic. The 2021 All-NBA forward has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly as a playmaker, but his shot selection can sometimes be a cause for concern. When Randle is hitting his shots, the Knicks can compete with anyone, but when his shots aren’t falling, the team often finds itself in offensive slumps.
Brunson, meanwhile, has been the steadying force in the backcourt. The former Dallas Maverick has been playing at an All-Star level, averaging over 20 points and 6 assists per game while providing leadership and stability. However, even Brunson has faced his share of challenges, particularly when it comes to shooting efficiency and creating for others in clutch moments. As the Knicks’ best playmaker, Brunson often has to carry a heavy load, and while he has shown the ability to rise to the occasion, the lack of another consistent offensive option is a concern.
One of the key areas where the Knicks’ offense falters is in their three-point shooting. New York ranks near the bottom of the league in three-point shooting percentage, and this lack of spacing has often congested the floor. Without a reliable outside threat, the Knicks find it difficult to stretch defenses and create open lanes for their ball handlers. Randle has attempted to diversify his game by shooting more threes, but he’s been inconsistent, and the team’s collective inability to knock down shots from deep has been a persistent problem.
Beyond Randle and Brunson, the Knicks’ offense lacks a clear secondary scorer who can take over games when needed. RJ Barrett, who is supposed to be that complementary piece, has shown inconsistency in his shooting and decision-making. Though Barrett has had moments of brilliance, especially in transition, his struggles to consistently hit jump shots have made it harder for the Knicks to operate efficiently on offense.
Bench Depth: A Mixed Bag
The Knicks’ bench has been another area of inconsistency. Players like Immanuel Quickley, Quentin Grimes, and Josh Hart have shown flashes of potential, but the team’s depth has not always been a reliable source of production. Quickley, in particular, has had stretches where he looks like one of the most valuable reserves in the league, providing scoring, energy, and playmaking. However, there have been times when Quickley has struggled with his shot and decision-making, which has led to uneven contributions.
Grimes, a promising young wing, has been tasked with providing shooting and perimeter defense, but his offensive game has not fully developed yet. While he can contribute in spurts, his shooting consistency has been an issue, and the Knicks need him to become a more reliable option, especially in games where the starting lineup is struggling.
Josh Hart has been a fan favorite for his hustle and grit, but his shooting also remains a concern. While Hart provides much-needed energy off the bench and has been solid defensively, his inability to stretch the floor offensively makes it difficult for the Knicks to sustain offensive runs when he’s on the court.
The Road Ahead: Can the Knicks Find Offensive Balance?
As the Knicks near the midway point of the season, the question remains: Can they find enough offensive consistency to complement their elite defense? While the Knicks’ defensive identity is firmly in place, their lack of spacing and secondary scoring options could limit their ability to compete with the top teams in the East.
The development of RJ Barrett and the continued growth of players like Grimes and Quickley will be key in determining whether the Knicks can find more offensive balance. Additionally, the team may look to make adjustments at the trade deadline, with rumors circulating about possible moves to bolster their shooting and scoring depth.
For now, the Knicks’ success will continue to rely heavily on their defense. If they can improve their offensive consistency—especially from three-point range and with contributions from other players beyond Randle and Brunson—they have the potential to be a dangerous team come playoff time. The next 30 games will likely be a crucial test for the Knicks as they look to solidify their standing in the playoff race and make the necessary adjustments to become a more well-rounded team.
The defense is there, but will the offense follow? Only time will tell.
