The New York Knicks are in the thick of the playoff race again, but there’s a nagging question: do they have enough offensive variety to truly contend? Fans sizing up the odds for a deep New York playoff run can see the concern. While the team has its strengths, the offense sometimes leans too heavily on a few key players.
The Heavy Lifting Falls on Two Stars
Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle have been carrying the scoring load for most of the year. Brunson’s crafty drives and mid-range shooting have elevated the team, and Randle remains a physical force down low. But when your offense depends this much on two players, it’s easier for good defenses to game-plan against you.
We’ve seen it happen: double teams, hard traps, and defensive walls clogging the lane. When Brunson or Randle hit a cold patch—or simply run out of gas—the Knicks’ scoring can dry up fast. Their offense isn’t bad; it’s just not built to survive if one star stumbles.
Injuries have only magnified the problem. Even minor setbacks for Brunson or Randle can throw the Knicks’ offensive rhythm way off, leaving fans frustrated and opponents emboldened.
Secondary Options: Flashes, but No Fire
RJ Barrett has the skills to be a difference-maker, but inconsistency has plagued him again this season. Some nights he attacks the rim with confidence, draining shots and forcing defenders to stretch thin. Other nights, he fades into the background.
Immanuel Quickley and Josh Hart bring hustle and energy, no doubt about it. But they’re not natural scorers you can lean on when defenses clamp down. And spacing remains a lingering issue. When the Knicks’ shooters aren’t respected from deep, the lane gets clogged, and their offense turns into a grind.
Playoff Basketball Exposes Flaws
In the regular season, you can sometimes outrun your flaws. Not in the playoffs. Every weakness gets magnified. Smart teams will double Brunson early, force the ball out of Randle’s hands, and dare Barrett and others to beat them.
Betting markets—like those offering playoff odds—aren’t blind to this. It’s part of why the Knicks aren’t seen as top-tier contenders despite their solid record. Toughness and heart matter, and the Knicks have those in spades. But depth of scoring options? That’s where they fall short.
Can They Fix It?
There’s still time, but not much. Players like Quentin Grimes and Donte DiVincenzo have shown they can hit shots when it matters. The Knicks need those guys to step into bigger offensive roles—not just as spot-up shooters, but as real threats.
Thibodeau might have to loosen his rotations a bit, too, letting guys play through mistakes in hopes of building confidence before the playoffs. Chemistry and trust often beat raw talent when the pressure’s on.
Final Thoughts
Nobody doubts the Knicks’ toughness. They defend, they rebound, they hustle—all the ingredients of a playoff fighter. But when it comes to scoring, especially against the league’s best, they might not have enough reliable options.
The Knicks could make noise in the postseason if their secondary players rise to the moment. If not, New York fans may find themselves wondering what could’ve been—again.
