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3 possible starting lineups for Knicks in 2022-23

By Desmond Novack

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 02: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 2, 2022 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 02: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 2, 2022 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks, RJ Barrett, Obi Toppin
New York Knicks. (Photo by Tom Horak/USA TODAY Sports) /

Starting lineup #1

PG: Jalen Brunson SG: Quentin Grimes SF: RJ Barrett PF: Obi Toppin C: Mitchell Robinson 

This lineup would only be considered in the scenario in which Julius Randle is traded, which would open the door for Obi Toppin to become the starter. While I do not want this to happen, it is something to take into consideration. If the Knicks are disappointing yet again, we could see a complete overhaul of veterans like Randle, and Evan Fournier, with maybe even Thibodeau getting fired as well.

Regardless, I believe that if New York wants a smooth-flowing offense, this is the way to go. Not only is there a decent combination of shooting, but there are only two primary ball handlers in the form of Brunson and Barrett.

If Brunson and Barrett are able to feed Toppin, Grimes, and Robinson properly, while also scoring well on their own, this lineup could be very fun to watch. It may not win many games, but I believe in the situation in which the Knicks trade their veterans and decide to tank, this would be the best possible lineup to throw out on the floor.

We have seen what Toppin is capable of in big minutes. If this is something that becomes sustainable, we could see the 24-year-old take a massive leap regardless of whether he starts or not.

At the end of the day, this is obviously the least likely scenario, but it is also fun to think about what this lineup could do on the floor. Three solid-to-good shooters, three good or better defenders, and two great lob threats. This lineup could be very fun regardless of how many games they win.

Hopefully, things do not get so bad to the point where we see the vets traded and this lineup put on the floor to tank. However, it is a scenario we must think about, as it is still very possible.

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