By Henry Muzzy
For the first time in over 25 years, the New York Knicks are heading to the NBA finals.
This playoff run has been incredible. After obtaining a 2-1 series disadvantage versus the Atlanta Hawks, the Knicks have won 11 straight games. That includes two series sweeps against the 76ers and Cavaliers, two standout teams with stars such as Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Donovan Mitchell, and James Harden.
The Knicks starting lineup includes Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Josh Hart. They also get key bench contributions from Miles McBride (Deuce) Mitchell Robinson, Jordan Clarkson, Jose Alvarado, and Landry Shamet.
The team is led by captain Jalen Brunson, who averaged 26.0 points per game in the regular season, and averaged 26.9 points per game leading up to the Finals. He did all of this while still maintaining 6.8 assists per game, showing his offensive versatility. Brunson was an All-Star this year.
Karl Anthony-Towns was absolutely dominant all year. He averaged a double-double all season with 20.1 points per game and 11.9 rebounds per game. KAT was also an All Star this year.
The two wings OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges carried the team on defense this year. They both averaged over a steal per game, showing off their quick hands and sharp ability to snatch the ball.
Mike Brown, the Knicks head coach, was thrown into a very skilled team, and he delivered in a big way. The goal for the Knicks was to get to the Finals, and they succeeded. Player’s have said great things about him and his style of coaching. Knicks fans hope he stays around for a while.
The bench is in no way forgotten. Landry Shamet, Deuce, and Mitchell Robinson were key players in clutch moments, and were important role fillers when starters were injured.
The Knicks had a phenomenal season, and will continue it in the Finals, starting on June 1st. They will face either the San Antonio Spurs and Victor Wembanyama or the Oklahoma City Thunder and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the finals.
