Abu Dhabi exposed the Knicks’ early-season gaps: a rough start, injuries thinning the wings, and turnover-prone offense. Brunson steadied the ship as the offense struggled, while a revamped bench sparked a 61-point swing in the second half. Mitch Robinson dominated the boards in limited minutes, Dadiet flashed potential but misfired from deep, and the depth look remains promising for fantasy—yet health and consistency will decide the path forward.

Hart's preseason debut for the Knicks in Abu Dhabi ended early after a non-contact injury scare and a ball tossed into the stands, resulting in a technical and ejection. He finished with 2 points, 3 rebounds and 1 assist in about seven minutes as New York tests rotations behind a Towns–Robinson pairing, while nursing a right ring finger splint.

Brown will methodically shape the lineup as New York pursues a title, with Hart’s versatility remaining central whether he starts or comes off the bench and health monitoring as regular-season prep continues.

Brown reshapes the Knicks around Karl-Anthony Towns, aiming to replicate Sacramento’s Sabonis–Fox pace while leveraging Towns’ shooting and IQ. Towns moves between five and four, thrives in elbows and corners, and becomes a true offensive hub. If the spacing and decision-making clicks, New York could unlock Towns’ ceiling and elevate the team’s fantasy upside.

Last season Towns posted 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists with 42% from deep. The plan is to keep him engaged with constant movement and playmaking, not static post-ups. If the off-ball action translates, Towns becomes a core catalyst for both real-world success and fantasy production.

Defense and frontcourt balance remain the big questions, but the blueprint is clear: Towns as a versatile engine, supported by Hart’s energy and Robinson’s rim protection to fuel a fast, efficient Knicks attack.