Karl-Anthony Towns and Mike Brown needed to adjust to each other in first season together

Mar 25, 2026 - 10:00

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Karl-Anthony Towns and Mike Brown needed to adjust to each other in first season together originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Knicks have had an interesting season so far, as they are quite stacked with talent on the roster. They had a slow start to the season as plenty of players had to adjust to new roles, including Karl-Anthony Towns. He was still considered one of the key players, but it was a lesser role than before.

Towns had to adjust because he was used to being the 1B to Jalen Brunson's 1A during the 2024-25 season. Now that the 2025-26 regular season is wrapping up soon, Towns looks finally comfortable with his current spot on the roster under head coach Mike Brown's system.

Towns and Brown have a much-improved dynamic now

Early in the season, Towns did not get the number of touches he was used to under former head coach Tom Thibodeau. He was featured as one of the best centers in the league, working well alongside Brunson as the Knicks' one-two punch.

He has continued to be the Knicks' second-best player, but he is much more focused on helping the team across different areas. He is trying harder on defense now because he was given that responsibility. Towns has also struggled, especially with his efficiency early in the season.

MORE: Karl-Anthony Towns admits he has been playing in a new role this season

Over the past few months, Towns has progressed into being a better player within Brown's system. That has resulted in him being one of the Knicks' most reliable players these days. It was a long while, but Towns has adjusted to the system, and he is now thriving within his role.

Even Brown is happy with his development because he knew he had to make adjustments. Telling Towns to play a more passive role was likely a challenging task, but it has worked out well because the Knicks have the optimal dynamic among the players.

"I had to adjust to him as well. That's what a season's about. I had to make some adjustments to figure out how I could get him involved a little bit better, get him to feel a little more comfortable," Brown said about his dynamic with Towns this season.

As the postseason nears, Brown and the Knicks are peaking at the right time. They are quite a competitive bunch with all their talented players, but they can only go as far as the coach can take them. Thankfully, Brown seems to have a good handle on his players, which will be crucial for their run in the Playoffs.