The Resurgence of the New York Knicks: How a Midseason Trade Transformed Them Into Contenders

Resurgence of the New York Knicks, Just six weeks ago, the New York Knicks were another middling Eastern Conference team stuck in NBA purgatory. Today, they’ve emerged as one of the league’s hottest teams and a legitimate threat to come out of the East. This remarkable turnaround began with a franchise-altering trade that addressed their biggest weaknesses while unlocking their All-Star’s full potential.

In this 1,500+ word deep dive, we’ll examine:

• The OG Anunoby trade that changed everything

• Jalen Brunson’s leap into MVP conversations

• Tom Thibodeau’s coaching masterpiece

• How the roster’s construction creates matchup nightmares

• Why this team is built for playoff success

The Turning Point: OG Anunoby Trade Reshapes the Franchise

Trade Details (Dec 30, 2023)

Knicks received:

• OG Anunoby

• Precious Achiuwa

• Malachi Flynn

Raptors received:

• RJ Barrett

• Immanuel Quickley

• 2024 2nd-round pick

Immediate Impact

According to NBA Advanced Stats, the Knicks have been the NBA’s best team since the trade, going 19-6 with a league-best +14.2 net rating.

Jalen Brunson: From All-Star to Superstar

Statistical Leap

• Pre-Trade: 25.1 PPG, 5.9 APG, 45.3% FG

• Post-Trade: 28.7 PPG, 7.2 APG, 49.1% FG

MVP-Caliber Play

Brunson ranks:

• 4th in clutch scoring (5.3 PPG)

• 7th in drives per game (18.1)

• 3rd in pull-up three-point percentage (39.8%)

Resurgence of the New York Knicks, As noted by ESPN’s Bobby Marks, “Brunson has gone from very good All-Star to legitimate top-10 player this season. His ability to control games in the fourth quarter is reminiscent of peak Chris Paul.”

Tom Thibodeau’s Coaching Masterclass

Defensive Transformation

The Knicks have become an elite defensive unit by:

• Switching 1-5 with Anunoby at center of everything

• Forcing turnovers at league-high rate (17.2% of possessions)

• Holding opponents to 32.1% on corner threes (best in NBA)

Offensive Adjustments

• Increased pace from 27th to 12th

• Emphasized drive-and-kick game (2nd in three-point attempts)

• Unleashed Brunson in isolation (1.12 PPP, 92nd percentile)

Roster Construction: Perfect Complementary Pieces

Starting Lineup Dominance

The current starting five (Brunson-DiVincenzo-Anunoby-Randle-Hartenstein) boasts:

• +24.3 net rating (best among lineups with 100+ minutes)

• 118.9 defensive rating (equivalent to #1 defense)

• 63.2% true shooting (elite efficiency)

Bench Strength

Key reserves:

• Donte DiVincenzo (48.3% from three since trade)

• Miles McBride (elite perimeter defender)

• Precious Achiuwa (versatile big)

Playoff Outlook: Why This Team is Dangerous

Matchup Advantages

• Can play big (Randle/Hartenstein) or small (Anunoby at 5)

• Multiple elite perimeter defenders

• Best clutch offense in East (58.1% win percentage)

Potential Playoff Path

NBA Newsz’s Projection Model gives NYK:

• 92% chance to make playoffs

• 48% chance to reach second round

• 19% chance to make Conference Finals

• 7% chance to win championship

Read More: The Phoenix Suns’ Identity Crisis: What’s Wrong With the NBA’s Most Disappointing Superteam?

Conclusion

Resurgence of the New York Knicks, After decades of dysfunction, the Knicks have built a legitimate contender through smart trades, player development, and a clear organizational vision. With Brunson playing at an All-NBA level, Anunoby transforming the defense, and Thibodeau pushing all the right buttons, New York basketball is relevant again—and this time, it might be here to stay.

For daily Knicks coverage and playoff projections, visit NBA Newsz.