Ranking New York Knicks Players Into Different Categories Ahead Of 2024-25 Season
With Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson leading the way, the New York Knicks have an extremely talented roster heading into the 2024–2025 NBA season. Two-way wings Mikal Bridges and Anunoby are key members of the Knicks core, while Donte DiVincenzo and Josh Hart are reserve players who try to add hustle and floor spacing. The Knicks believe they have what it takes to win the NBA championship, and as the 2024–25 season approaches, we will identify the top player from the team in each of our 14 categories.
Best All-Around Player: Jalen Brunson
Because of his leadership qualities, clutch performance, and offensive efficiency, Jalen Brunson has emerged as the greatest player on the Knicks all-around. During the previous season, Brunson shot 40.1% from three-point range and 47.9% from the field, averaging 28.7 points and 6.7 assists per game. The Knicks’ offense typically runs through him because of his ability to set the tone and create opportunities for his teammates.
Brunson’s leadership was on full display during the 2024 playoffs, where he led the Knicks to the second round, averaging 32.4 points and 7.5 assists per game. He’s not just a scorer but a tenacious competitor who can take on the responsibility of guarding the opposing team’s best backcourt player when needed. His steady presence, combined with his offensive versatility, makes him the Knicks’ most indispensable player going into the 2024-25 season.
Best Shooter: Donte DiVincenzo
Donte DiVincenzo brings much-needed shooting to the Knicks’ lineup, and his perimeter prowess earns him the title of best shooter on the team. Last season with the Golden State Warriors, DiVincenzo shot an impressive 40.1% from three-point range, making him a consistent floor-spacer for a Knicks team that needs reliable outside shooting.
His ability to knock down shots off the catch and create his own looks from beyond the arc will be crucial in opening up driving lanes for teammates like Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle. In addition to his three-point shooting, DiVincenzo is a solid all-around offensive player who can score in multiple ways. He averaged 15.5 points per game while playing within a high-paced offense, and his shot selection was always efficient.
Best Post Scorer: Julius Randle
The top post scorer for the Knicks is Julius Randle, who dominates opponents in the paint with his strength and adaptability. Randle thrived as a muscular presence who could back down defenders or finish via contact, averaging 24.0 points and 9.2 rebounds per game in the previous campaign. It is challenging to protect him one-on-one because of his well-developed post game, which includes a range of plays like spin moves, drop steps, and fadeaways.
Randle is also effective at drawing fouls in the post, which helps the Knicks generate easy points from the free-throw line, where he shot 78.1% last season. His ability to kick out to shooters when doubled in the post adds another layer to his game, making him a central figure in the Knicks’ half-court offense.
Best Handles: Jalen Brunson
Jalen Brunson’s ball handling is one of his greatest assets, allowing him to navigate through defenses with precision. He is highly adept at creating space for himself, whether through crossovers, hesitations, or spin moves. Brunson’s tight handles enable him to probe the defense, find gaps in the lane, and either finish at the rim or dish it out to teammates.
Brunson’s handles were on full display last season when he averaged 2.4 turnovers per game, a low figure for someone who handles the ball as much as he does. His ball control and ability to create offense for himself and others make him the engine of the Knicks’ offense. Defenders have a tough time staying in front of him due to his crafty dribbling, and his ability to create off the bounce is one of the reasons he’s considered the best ball-handler on the team.
Best Passer: Jalen Brunson
Jalen Brunson was the Knicks’ floor general; therefore, his loss is critical to the group’s performance. Last season, he led an effective offense and created opportunities for his teammates with an average of 6.7 assists per game. In pick-and-roll situations, Brunson thrives because of his ability to see open shooters and pass the ball to large players who are dribbling towards the hoop.
What sets Brunson apart as a passer is his ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Whether it’s a no-look pass to a cutting teammate or a timely kick-out to an open shooter, Brunson consistently makes the right play. His leadership as a floor general and his ability to control the tempo of the game are vital for the Knicks’ offensive success, solidifying his status as the team’s best passer.
Best Perimeter Defender: OG Anunoby
OG Anunoby has built a reputation as one of the best perimeter defenders in the league, and his arrival in New York solidifies the Knicks’ defense. Anunoby’s 6’7″ frame, combined with his 7’2″ wingspan, allows him to guard multiple positions, from point guards to small forwards. Last season, Anunoby averaged 1.7 steals per game, showcasing his ability to disrupt passing lanes and force turnovers.
Anunoby’s versatility allows him to switch onto smaller guards or bigger forwards without sacrificing defensive integrity. As the Knicks’ best perimeter defender, slightly ahead of Mikal Bridges, Anunoby will likely be tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best wing player, bringing much-needed defensive toughness to the squad.
Best Post Defender: Julius Randle
Julius Randle’s physicality and size make him the Knicks’ best post-defender. He may not be a traditional shot-blocker, but Randle uses his strength to hold his ground against bigger opponents and prevent easy baskets in the paint. Last season, Randle averaged 9.2 rebounds per game, often boxing out well and securing defensive boards to prevent second-chance opportunities.
Randle’s versatility allows him to guard power forwards and centers effectively, using his strong lower body to push opponents off their spots. While not a shot-blocker like Robinson, Randle’s ability to defend one-on-one in the post is crucial for a Knicks team that lacks elite rim protection outside of Mitchell Robinson. His effort on defense and his ability to stay disciplined make him the best post-defender on the roster.
Most Athletic: Julius Randle
Randle’s explosiveness also plays a significant role in his success as both a scorer and a rebounder. His ability to elevate over defenders for rebounds or to finish through contact in the paint makes him a difficult player to defend every game, and that won’t change in 2024-25.
Most Clutch Player: Jalen Brunson
Jalen Brunson has proven time and again that he thrives in clutch situations, making him the Knicks’ most reliable closer. Last season, Brunson’s poise in crunch time was a major factor in the Knicks’ success, as he consistently delivered in late-game scenarios. Last season, he averaged 3.5 clutch points per game, which is higher than that of LeBron James and De’Aaron Fox, among others.
In the 2023 playoffs, Brunson’s clutch performances further solidified his reputation. He had several key moments, including a 44-point effort in Game 5 against the Indiana Pacers, helping to give the Knicks a 3-2 series lead in the second round of the playoffs. His ability to stay calm under pressure, combined with his excellent decision-making and scoring versatility, makes him the clear choice as the Knicks’ most clutch player heading into the 2024-25 season.
Best Leader: Jalen Brunson
One of the main reasons for the Knicks’ recent comeback has been Jalen Brunson’s leadership both on and off the court. As the floor general for the club, Brunson sets an exemplary example with his perseverance, work ethic, and basketball IQ. With an average of 28.7 points and 6.7 assists per game the previous season, Brunson demonstrated his capacity to effectively guide the Knicks’ offense.
Outside of the court, Brunson is regarded by his teammates and coaching staff for his professionalism and commitment to the game. His steady attitude to the game and ability to mentor younger players established the tone for the team’s culture. Before the 2024–25 season begins, Brunson will be the Knicks’ most significant leader in the locker room and during intense play.
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