Dylan Backer
New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns looks to be in rhythm for the first time this season. However, this season has certainly been different than in years past, as his first half featured his worst shooting splits ever posted, and a clear disconnect between him and the head coach.
Knicks’ Karl-Anthony Towns has seen a different level of usage
Notably, his usage rate is slightly down this season compared to last year. In his first season with the Knicks, he had a 27.4% usage rate, but that figure is down to just 25.6% this season.
The new system under new head coach Mike Brown is what likely is playing a factor, but it was also clear that it took him some time to adjust to playing a different type of role. Towns is used to being a top option, as he has always been a first or second option throughout his career.
Towns spoke to ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill about the adjustments he has needed to make this season as he adapts to the system.
“You’re used to touching the ball, having a rhythm of the game, flow…also minutes being lower, you have more time to get into the game,” Towns said. “It’s different, something different in my career. I haven’t dealt with something like that.”
Towns has improved significantly since the All-Star break
Towns has started to look a lot better for the Knicks, particularly since the All-Star break. Notably, he is being more of a focal point in the offense and his efficiency has trended up as a result, which has led the Knicks to securing huge wins over the past month.
Additionally, Towns has improved on the defensive side, which has helped the Knicks obtain the top defensive rating since mid-January. When he is playing at his best, the ceiling of this Knicks team significantly raises.
The hope is that now he is fully adapted to his role and can provide a huge impact in the playoffs.
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