The Knicks’ Struggles Under Mike Brown Reveal the Fragility of Expectations: A Tale of Learning and Accountability in the High-Stakes World of NBA Coaching and Performance
The New York Knicks are currently navigating a transitional phase that has significant implications for their performance and future. With recent changes in coaching and player dynamics, expectations have reached a fever pitch, especially following their first conference finals appearance in 25 years. The pressure to not only replicate but build upon this success is palpable. The Knicks, under the new leadership of Mike Brown, have entered the season with a mixed bag of results, which has sparked discussions about team cohesion, coaching strategies, and the nature of accountability in professional sports.
At the heart of the Knicks’ current situation is point guard Jalen Brunson, whose unwavering commitment to accountability serves as a beacon for the rest of the team. Brunson embodies a mindset that prioritizes performance over excuses. When faced with potential justifications for poor play, such as fatigue from back-to-back games or injuries to key players, he remains steadfast in his belief that the team must rise above these challenges. His perspective is critical, especially in a league where narratives often shift quickly based on performance and outcomes.
Brunson’s recent comments highlight the learning curve the Knicks are experiencing. He noted that the team is still in the process of acclimating to each other and to Brown’s system. This admission underscores a truth that many fans and analysts often overlook: the chemistry and understanding among players and coaches take time to develop. In the high-stakes environment of the NBA, where every game counts and scrutiny is relentless, this period of adjustment can be both a challenge and an opportunity.
The 2025-26 season poses a unique challenge for the Knicks, particularly given the competitive landscape of the Eastern Conference. With rival stars like Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton sidelined for significant stretches, the opportunity for the Knicks to assert themselves as genuine contenders is ripe. However, the weight of expectations can be a double-edged sword. The recent coaching change, despite being necessary for growth, adds another layer of complexity. Mike Brown, who has a reputation for strong defensive strategies and player development, faces the daunting task of instilling his philosophy while also ensuring the team remains competitive.
Early in the season, Brown himself has acknowledged the disjointed nature of the team’s play. His candid reflections on his coaching performance reveal a rare level of transparency. Acknowledging that his substitutions were “all over the map” indicates a willingness to adapt and learn, which is crucial in building trust with players. This is particularly important given the nature of professional sports, where egos and personalities can clash. A coach who openly admits to needing improvement can foster an environment where players feel empowered to express their own struggles.
The recent uptick in performance from players like Josh Hart and Jordan Clarkson serves as a testament to Brown’s evolving approach. Their strong showings may not be mere coincidences but rather a result of Brown finding a rhythm with his rotations and substitutions. This consistency is essential for players to feel secure in their roles and to execute the game plan effectively. The evidence of progress, however small, can be vital in maintaining team morale during a period of flux.
Accountability is a recurring theme in the narrative surrounding the Knicks this season. Brown’s approach of holding players accountable, including stars, indicates a commitment to developing a culture of responsibility. This is not only about individual performance but also about fostering a collective mentality where every player recognizes their role in the team’s success. The challenge, however, lies in balancing this accountability with the understanding that the team is still learning. Players must feel supported even as they are pushed to improve.
The players’ responses to Brown’s leadership style reveal a level of respect and appreciation for his open-door policy. Hart’s comments about Brown being an “amazing person” and his willingness to engage with players highlight the importance of communication in a successful team dynamic. In a league where relationships can be strained under pressure, a coach who fosters an atmosphere of trust can be a game-changer. However, the road to building this rapport is fraught with challenges, especially early in the season when the stakes are high and results are scrutinized.
The Knicks’ trajectory this season will depend heavily on their ability to adapt and grow as a cohesive unit. The early struggles should not overshadow the potential for growth that lies ahead. As the players and coaching staff learn from each other, the hope is that they will find a rhythm that translates into consistent performance on the court. The journey is complex, but the foundation of accountability, communication, and mutual respect can set the stage for a successful season.
As the Knicks continue to navigate the ups and downs of the season, the overarching narrative will be one of patience and resilience. The challenges they face are not merely hurdles; they are opportunities for growth and development. The balance between high expectations and the realities of a learning process will define their success. The journey may be arduous, but with the right mindset and approach, the Knicks can emerge stronger and better prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
Jalen Brunson almost never uses excuses.
Let’s say the Knicks lose on the second night of a home-road back-to-back. Some players in this scenario may talk about the challenge of a quick turnaround or a late flight. Not Brunson.
Maybe the Knicks are down one or two rotation players and lose to a quality opponent. It would be completely understandable if a player told the media that injuries to key players impacted the game. Not Brunson.
He’d probably say the Knicks should have played better and could have won the game.
So it was noteworthy last week in Milwaukee when Brunson said the Knicks need some time to get used to one another.
"We’re still learning; everything is brand new for us. We’re not gonna use that excuse for a long time. But these first couple weeks, it’s still fresh for us," the Knick captain said last week. "But no matter what, we know what we gotta go out there and do and we gotta do that to the best of our abilities."
If Brunson says the Knicks need some time to get accustomed to a new head coach and new system, you probably should give him the benefit of the doubt.
It’s fair – and logical – to hold the 2025-26 Knicks to high standards. They are coming off of their first conference finals appearance in 25 seasons. They have a unique window this season to make a run to the NBA Finals. Two stars on rival teams (Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton) are out for a significant portion of the season.
So this team should be heavily scrutinized. That’s what happens when you have championship expectations. That’s what happens when you make a coaching change after one of the most successful seasons in the past 30 years.
But in the opening weeks of this season, things are going to look disjointed. Players are getting used to each other and their head coach. The head coach is getting used to his players.
But you can see bits of evidence that the process is working.
Mike Brown himself said he didn’t help the Knicks’ reserves earlier in the season because his substitutions were "all over the map."
In the past two games, Brown feels like he’s found consistency with substitutions and lineups.
Maybe it’s no coincidence that Josh Hart and Jordan Clarkson have had the best games of their seasons in the past two nights.
Brown has talked openly about his own coaching performance. He’s held his players accountable and held himself accountable.
"We just have to keep learning on the fly, starting with me. I’ve got to keep trying to get better quicker," Brown said late last week.
It seems like the players appreciate Brown’s sentiment. Hart was asked after Monday’s game about Brown getting more settled with his substitutions/rotations in the past two games.
"Mike’s new. We’re all getting accustomed and acclimated to everybody so you definitely feel that a little bit," he said. "And the great thing about Mike, he’s an amazing person, first and foremost. He always has an open door. If you don’t understand something that’s going on, you can always go talk to him. So obviously this is a process. Everybody wants it built now but it won’t be. And we’re all learning, including him."
Brown hasn’t been shy about holding players – including the top players on the roster – accountable when he feels they don’t play well. He’s been vocal about that in the locker room during and after games, challenging players to improve their performance, per people familiar with the matter.
But he’s also been upfront about the challenges he and the Knicks face early this season.
“We all have to be better. Start with me. And we will be better,” Brown was saying before Sunday’s game.
The Knicks have looked much better since Brown made that statement. The offense has been strong the last two games. Maybe that continues on Wednesday against Minnesota. Maybe it doesn’t. Either way, this Knicks team – and its new head coach – will take some time to get fully in synch.
"This is a process. We’ve had a lot of guys that have been out, hadn’t practiced and it starts with me," Brown said late Monday. "I said this last game, I gotta help put these guys in a better position. Whether it’s on the floor or whatever, rotation-wise, but I didn’t quite have as good a feel (earlier in the season) because guys had been out. Trying to play this guy, that guy. It starts with me; I have gotten better and they’ve just gotten more comfortable."