3 Critical adjustments the Knicks must make ahead of 2023-24 season

2. Utilize players in the off-ball more often

Last season, the Knicks saw success while using both Brunson and Randle as the team’s primary ball handlers, with not many players besides Barrett getting the occasional isolation. However, fans saw how it failed when it was time for the playoffs.

Now, entering the 2023-24 season, fans hope to see Thibodeau utilize guys like Grimes and even Brunson himself more in the off-ball.

Not only would this speed the Knicks’ offense up, but it would also help the team’s fluidity and efficiency on that side of the ball. Instead of having 20+ second long possessions where the Knicks take an inefficient shot, we could see a much faster, smoother play that makes New York’s life much easier.

Whether it be off-ball cuts from Randle and Barrett, off-ball screens designed to get three-point shooters like Grimes open, or other methods, Thibs has to add these plays with the way the modern NBA is.

Some of the best teams in the NBA, like the Nuggets, Warriors, or Heat, excel in getting their shooters open in the off-ball. While it’s incredibly difficult to copy what these teams do, there’s no reason not to run more off-ball plays. This change, even if it’s just something the team runs every couple of plays, will make a big difference.