New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown emphasized the need for consistent intensity after Sunday’s 110-107 victory over the Golden State Warriors. “It’s good to get a win but, you know, I was not happy with the way that we restarted the game and we played most of the game. Now we found a way to get a win because of the stuff we did the game,” Brown said.
Brown declined to name a Defensive Player of the Game, highlighting the team’s collective responsibility. “I did not name the DPOG today so there’s no DPOG. We have to figure out individually, collectively, how we can start games better,” he explained.
The coach pinpointed the importance of starting games with urgency and physicality. “Especially going down the stretch…if they feel one to go in from the beginning of the game and there’s no sense of urgency or we aren’t making them feel us, it’s gonna be a long night,” Brown said.
He acknowledged the team’s strong defensive metrics but stressed room for improvement. “Somebody told me from the first of January on, we have the number one defense in the league. Something I’m like that you do. Okay? We can play better,” Brown said.
When asked about lineup adjustments, Brown noted flexibility but emphasized individual focus. “It’s not too late to do anything. And if I feel the need, I will…right now, I’m concentrating with each individual,” he said.
Brown also addressed player fatigue, particularly Mohamed Diawara. “Anytime any of our players feel fatigued…our performance group tells us that this guy needs a game, that guy needs a game. To get their body right, mind, right, whatever it may be, 100%, I’ll give anybody,” he said.
The coach reiterated expectations for veteran leadership and self-sufficiency. “The veteran team and experienced winning at a pretty high level…shouldn’t have to call two time outs in the first six minutes of the ballgame. Now we just got to go do it,” Brown said.
Reflecting on the season, Brown highlighted specific games that demonstrated the desired approach. “Since Denver, we haven’t played the way I think we’re capable of coming out to start games,” he said.
Brown’s focus remains on preparation and execution rather than results. “The game is going to be the outcome of the game. I’m not worried about that right now. I’m worried about what I just said more than anything else,” he added.
The Knicks improved to 44-25 with the comeback win, relying on Jalen Brunson’s 30 points and nine assists, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 17 points and 12 rebounds. New York will host Indiana on Tuesday, aiming to sustain the momentum in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
