Karl-Anthony Towns Questions His Role in Revamped Knicks Offense

Karl-Anthony Towns is facing uncertainty regarding his role in the revamped New York Knicks offense under new head coach Mike Brown. After a strong performance last season, where he averaged 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, Towns expressed concerns as the team approaches the 2025-26 season opener.
Karl-Anthony Towns Questions His Role in Revamped Knicks Offense
The Knicks recently transitioned from Tom Thibodeau to Mike Brown to enhance their offensive strategy. This change aims to shift from a mid-tempo approach to a more fast-paced style, significantly altering player roles. Just two days before the season opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Towns admitted he is still trying to understand his position in Brown’s system.
Performance Under Tom Thibodeau
- Averaged 24.4 points per game
- Collected 12.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game
- Helped lead the Knicks to the Eastern Conference finals
Transitioning to Mike Brown’s Offense
Brown’s approach emphasizes positional versatility, where players can switch roles throughout the game. Towns is expected to play both center and power forward, which requires him to adjust significantly. Brown mentioned that Towns may have the steepest learning curve and highlighted that his movement will increase, allowing him to occupy various positions on the floor.
Injury Concerns
Towns missed some preseason games due to a sore quadriceps, which complicates his integration into the new system. Brown acknowledged the challenge of getting Towns acclimated before the regular season begins. He noted the importance of patience during this transitional phase:
- “It’s a marathon, not a sprint,” Brown stated.
- “We’re still figuring it out,” Towns remarked about his role.
Upcoming Season Opener
The Knicks are preparing for their first game against the Cavaliers, with some uncertainty regarding player health. Josh Hart is dealing with back spasms, while Mitchell Robinson has been absent due to load management issues. Brown mentioned that Robinson could participate in the season opener, suggesting a cautious but positive outlook.
This upcoming season will be crucial not only for the Knicks as a team but also for Karl-Anthony Towns as he finds his place in the revamped offense. As the pressure mounts for immediate results, both coaches and players must navigate this challenging transition together.