LeBron James praises Knicks "one-headed monster" amid injury woes
After making multiple moves to get into the title picture, the New York Knicks are dealing with an array of injuries. Nevertheless, they've garnered praise from one of the game's top stars, LeBron James, who credited their guard Jalen Brunson for his recent plays.
A few weeks ago, LeBron announced that he'd be teamming up with JJ Redick to put out an NBA podcast. Along with covering current topics, they also provide in-depth analysis.
In their second episode, LeBron and Redick got into a discussion about players who are best against a blitz pick-and-roll coverage. Knicks guard Jalen Brunson got a quick mention, as teams continue to try and force the ball out of his hands.
"He's a one-headed monster right now with the Knicks and they blitzing him and making other guys beat them," LeBron said.
Brunson has been without his two co-stars in Julius Randle and OG Anunoby due to injury. Nevertheless, the first-time All-Star has kept New York in the Eastern Conference playoff race. They are in fourth place with a 43-28 record.
With Randle sidelined, Brunson has been tasked with being the main focal point in the offsense. That has resulted in a sizable uptick in production. In February, Brunson averaged 31.9 points and 7.4 assists.
New York Knicks are getting production from supporting cast despite injuries
As LeBron James mentioned, teams are doing everything they can to get the ball away from Jalen Brunson. That has forced the Knicks' supporting cast to step up, which they've done in stellar fashion. Over the last few weeks, multiple players have gone off for big outings.
The most recent role player to have a noteworthy performance is veteran guard Donte DiVincenzo. Against the Detroit Pistons Monday, he set a franchise record with 11 threes as he ended the night with 40 points in a blowout win.
Due to the injuries the Knicks are dealing with, Miles McBride has seen more minutes recently. He has made the most of this opportunity, showcasing his ability to produce on both ends of the floor.
Along with an impressive defensive outing on Steph Curry, McBride notched up 29 points in a win over the Golden State Warriors last week. He followed that up two games later by playing 48 minutes and scoring 26 points against the Brooklyn Nets.
Another role player who deserves shine is Josh Hart. Over the last two weeks, he has had two triple-doubles.
While defenses don't want Brunson running the show, New York is still making them pay. The impressive play from the supporting cast has been a major positive for them, with the postseason around the corner.