The New York Knicks have made a remarkable turnaround in the NBA playoffs, thanks in part to the secret weapon of Chiney Ogwumike, who has revealed the key to Jalen Brunson’s success on the court.
For years, the Knicks struggled with overspending, losing games, and a lack of success in the playoffs. However, a series of eight key moves and moments have fueled the team’s resurrection.
One of the most pivotal moves was trading Kristaps Porzingis in 2019, which allowed the Knicks to clear bad contracts and acquire cap space. While stars like Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving chose to join the Brooklyn Nets instead of the Knicks, this led to the signing of Julius Randle, who has been a standout player for the team.
Additionally, hiring Leon Rose as president and Tom Thibodeau as coach gave the Knicks a new identity. A revamp of the front office and expanded player development staff has also led to an improved roster.
The signing of Jalen Brunson in 2022 has been seen as a bargain and has propelled the Knicks to success in the playoffs. The team also showed discipline by not trading for Donovan Mitchell, signaling organizational growth.
In the playoffs, the Knicks eliminated Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers, marking their first series victory in 10 years. A key trade for OG Anunoby at this season’s deadline has also improved the team’s defense and offense.
Overall, the Knicks have made significant strides in the playoffs, with a combination of smart moves, strategic hires, and player development leading to their success on the court.