The New York Knicks will be a major problem in the 2024-25 NBA seasons after trading for budding All-Star wing Mikal Bridges and re-signing All-NBA Defense star OG Anunoby to pair with Jalen Brunson , Julius Randle, and Josh Hart. The Knicks had a strong season by reaching Game 7 of the second round of the playoffs this year but were unable to progress without Randle available and Brunson dealing with nagging injuries. Next season, however, it could be an entirely different story, and their potential depth chart looks scary for any opponent they come up against.
Starters
Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson
The New York Knicks starting lineup for the 2024-25 season features a balanced mix of scoring, defense, and playmaking, starting with Jalen Brunson at point guard. Brunson had a breakout year last season, averaging 28.7 points and 6.7 assists per game while shooting 40.1% from beyond the arc. His ability to penetrate the defense and finish around the rim, coupled with his improved playmaking, makes him a dynamic offensive threat and the floor general the Knicks need. He is also coming off a tremendous postseason where he became a legitimate superstar after posting 32.4 points and 7.5 assists per game.
Joining Brunson in the backcourt is OG Anunoby, one of the best defensive players in the league. Anunoby earned All-NBA Defense honors in 2022-23, thanks to his ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses. He averaged 1.7 steals per game in 2023-24 and also contributed 14.7 points per game, showing his value on both ends of the court. The Knicks trading for Anunoby has worked out because they have re-signed him to a five-year, $212.5 million deal.
Alongside him, the newly acquired Mikal Bridges brings even more defensive prowess and scoring ability. Bridges averaged 19.6 points and 4.5 rebounds last season, shooting 37.2% from three despite playing for the lowly Brooklyn Nets. His versatility and length make him a nightmare matchup for opponents. Bridges was another shocking acquisition by the Knicks who are stocking up on high-IQ, two-way players to help Brunson and Randle.
In the frontcourt, Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson provide a formidable presence. Randle, despite missing a large part of last season due to injury (46 appearances), still averaged 24.0 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. His ability to stretch the floor and bully his way to the basket gives the Knicks a reliable scoring option inside and out and don’t forget he is a bonafide All-Star. Mitchell Robinson, anchoring the defense, averages 1.9 blocks per game for his career but needs to stay healthy to fortify the Knicks' defense even more.
Bench
Miles McBride, Donte DiVincenzo, Alec Burks, Josh Hart, Precious Achiuwa
The Knicks' bench is equally impressive, starting with the energy of Miles McBride. McBride, known for his hustle and defensive intensity, has developed into a reliable backup guard. His ability to pressure opposing guards and disrupt passing lanes adds a valuable layer of defense to the second unit. Alongside him, Donte DiVincenzo provides a combination of shooting and playmaking. Last season, DiVincenzo shot 40.1% from three-point range while averaging 15.5 points per game, making him a valuable spark off the bench after a breakout playoff campaign when he averaged 17.8 points per game.
Alec Burks and Josh Hart bring versatility and experience to the wing positions. Burks, a seasoned veteran, averaged 10.4 points per game last season and could likely return in free agency on a minimum deal. Josh Hart, a fan favorite and Tom Thibodeau’s trusted player, contributes across the board with his rebounding, defense, and hustle plays. Hart averaged 14.5 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game in the playoffs, showcasing his all-around game and ability to impact the game in multiple ways. His energy and effort are infectious, often sparking runs and providing a boost when needed.
Rounding out the bench is Precious Achiuwa, who adds athleticism and defensive versatility in the frontcourt. Achiuwa, who could receive a $6,275,861 qualifying offer, averaged 7.6 points and 6.6 rebounds last season while playing solid defense. His ability to switch onto multiple positions and protect the rim makes him a valuable piece for the Knicks' rotation.
The New York Knicks Will Challenge The Boston Celtics To Come Out The East
The New York Knicks are poised to be a significant force in the Eastern Conference, potentially challenging the reigning NBA champion Boston Celtics for supremacy. The Celtics, led by the dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, have set the benchmark for excellence in the East with their balanced roster, defensive prowess, and championship pedigree after winning the 2023-24 NBA championship.
However, the Knicks' revamped lineup, featuring the likes of Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Julius Randle, and Mitchell Robinson, presents a formidable challenge. The Knicks' combination of defensive intensity, scoring versatility, and veteran leadership positions them as the second-best team in the East, ready to push the Celtics to their limits.
When comparing the Knicks to other title contenders, their depth and balance stand out. The Milwaukee Bucks, with Giannis Antetokounmpo at the helm, remain a perennial threat, but the Knicks' ability to match up defensively with Anunoby and Bridges gives them a unique edge.
The Philadelphia 76ers, led by Joel Embiid, possess a dominant inside presence, yet the Knicks' mix of perimeter defense and interior strength with Robinson can counteract Philly's offense. Additionally, the Miami Heat, known for their grit and playoff resilience, will find the Knicks a tough opponent given New York's upgraded roster and newfound cohesion. Even the Cleveland Cavaliers cannot match up with the Knicks’ firepower despite the presence of Donovan Mitchell.
Out West, teams like the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, and Oklahoma City Thunder boast elite talent. However, the Knicks' revamped lineup and strategic depth provide a well-rounded challenge. While Nikola Jokic's brilliance or the star power of Anthony Edwards, Luka Doncic, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is formidable, the Knicks' mix of youth, defense, and scoring punch offers a balanced approach that can compete on any given night.
As the 2024-25 season unfolds, the New York Knicks will undoubtedly be a team to watch, with their eyes set on challenging the Celtics by potentially making a deep playoff run and contending for their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.
Related: Predicting The New York Knicks Next Moves: Huge Blockbuster Trade And Smart Decisions In Free Agency
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