A Different Way to Dust
Data Analysis/Visualization + Video
The Knicks continued their onslaught on both ends of the floor. What has stood out most is how they've executed offensively in a four game sweep of Cleveland. We all know the adjustments they made in Game 4 of the Atlanta series to unlock Karl-Anthony Towns' passing ability, but what happens in a series where they can't lean on the pinch post the way they have, whether or not it’s due to a cross-match coverage? What translates when the Knicks have to deviate from that action? We'll explore that and more from what has been a historic run.
Different Defenses Call for Different Solutions
In our preview for the Cavaliers we discussed attacking James Harden and Donovan Mitchell. And did they ever. I do not have specific data on each attack of the duo, however we see a clear change in the priorities of New York’s offense. Less of the motion offense, which consists of the multiple pinch post plays, and less set plays, gearing up to get Mitchell and Harden into more ball-screen actions.
Jalen Brunson leads this attack, and the series saw a notable rise in perimeter isolation plays. More perimeter isolations demand more help beaters, actions designed to punish defenders who load up on Brunson. For a deeper dive on help beaters, read here:
