The New York Knicks kicked off their preseason with a hard-fought 111-109 victory over the Charlotte Hornets, providing fans with a first glimpse of the team’s reimagined offense. This game wasn’t just a typical preseason contest; it marked a significant step in the Knicks’ efforts to evolve from last season’s style of play, demonstrating new offensive schemes and a focus on fluidity and versatility.
Led by head coach Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks have traditionally been known for their emphasis on defense and physical play. But as they aim to become a deeper threat in the Eastern Conference, the coaching staff has recognized the need for a more dynamic offense that can keep up with the high-scoring standards of today’s NBA. In Tuesday night’s matchup against the Hornets, the Knicks displayed a revamped approach, with ball movement and spacing that allowed multiple players to shine.
One of the most notable aspects of the Knicks’ new-look offense was the distribution of scoring opportunities. Julius Randle, the team’s star forward, continued to be a focal point, but he operated more frequently as a playmaker, looking to facilitate and set up teammates. Randle finished the game with 15 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds, showing his ability to impact the game in more ways than just scoring. His willingness to share the ball allowed for better offensive flow, making it harder for the Hornets to focus their defensive efforts solely on him.
Point guard Jalen Brunson, coming off an impressive season in which he established himself as a key leader, also showcased his ability to run the offense. Brunson’s quick decision-making and court vision kept the Hornets’ defense off-balance, leading to open shots for teammates and efficient scoring opportunities. He tallied 17 points and 7 assists, setting the tempo early in the game and helping the Knicks build an early lead.
One of the key developments was the improved shooting from beyond the arc, an area where the Knicks have struggled in the past. New additions like Donte DiVincenzo and improvements from existing players like Quentin Grimes gave the Knicks a stronger perimeter presence. DiVincenzo, a former Villanova standout, provided instant offense off the bench, connecting on multiple three-pointers and spacing the floor effectively. Grimes, entering his third season, looked more confident in his role as a shooter and defender, hitting several clutch shots throughout the game.
The Knicks’ bench also played a pivotal role in securing the win, demonstrating the depth that could be a significant asset throughout the season. Immanuel Quickley, the team’s sixth man, continued to show his ability to provide a scoring spark. His aggressive playstyle and willingness to attack the rim resulted in key points during a critical stretch of the second half. Meanwhile, RJ Barrett looked comfortable playing alongside the second unit, contributing with his versatility as a scorer and defender.
The game was not without its challenges, as the Hornets kept things competitive until the final whistle. Charlotte’s young star LaMelo Ball kept the Knicks’ defense on their toes, while forward Gordon Hayward and rookie Brandon Miller provided steady scoring. The Knicks’ ability to maintain composure in the final minutes and execute their game plan was a promising sign, even as the game came down to a clutch stop to seal the win.
After the game, Coach Thibodeau spoke about the importance of preseason in establishing new habits and building chemistry. “We want to be a team that can move the ball and keep defenses guessing. Tonight was a good start, but we have a lot of work ahead of us,” he said. Thibodeau also emphasized the need for improvement on the defensive end, noting that while the offense showed potential, the team’s identity would still rely on toughness and effort on defense.
For the Knicks, the 111-109 win over the Hornets offered a promising glimpse of what the future could hold. The team’s reimagined offense, with a greater focus on spacing, three-point shooting, and shared responsibilities, could help them climb higher in the Eastern Conference standings this season. With players like Brunson, Randle, and Barrett adapting to new roles, and newcomers like DiVincenzo fitting into the system seamlessly, the Knicks seem poised to be more unpredictable and efficient than in previous years.
As the preseason progresses, the challenge for the Knicks will be to maintain this offensive balance while continuing to fine-tune their defensive schemes. If they can carry this new approach into the regular season, the Knicks have the potential to become a more well-rounded team, capable of competing with the best in the East. While it’s just one game in the preseason, the early returns suggest that the Knicks are serious about their transformation and ready to surprise some doubters when the real action begins.
For now, the Knicks’ fans can feel a sense of optimism as they look forward to seeing how this revamped style translates to the regular season. With a mix of veteran leadership, young talent, and a commitment to adapting to the modern game, New York may finally have the formula to build on last season’s success and take another step toward becoming a true contender in the Eastern Conference.