Tracy McGrady sits down with The Post’s Steve Serby for some Q&A ahead of the Knicks-Hawks playoff series:
Q: What is the key for the Knicks to reach the NBA Finals?
A: It starts on the defensive end. When they’re locked in and talking, they’re a different team. I’ve seen them have stretches where they look like a top five defense in the league, and that’s what it’s going to take. Good defense turns into better offense for this team. Offensively, they’ve got enough. It’s really just about balance. When Mikal [Bridges] gets going, it opens everything up because now you’ve got a few guys that can give you 20 any night. I like when they’ve got size on the floor too. [Karl-Anthony] Towns can space it, Mitch [Robinson] handles the paint, that’s tough to deal with.
Q: What would give you the most concern about the Knicks?
A: Consistency. Can the core five earn their minutes? You can’t come out slow in the playoffs. You get down early, now you’re chasing the game, and good teams don’t let you climb back. And defensively, teams are going to test you — they’re going to go at you and see where you’re vulnerable. If you’re not locked in, that’s where you can get exposed.
Q: What do the Knicks need from KAT to reach the Finals?
A: They need discipline and presence from him in every possession. He’s too skilled to fade in and out of games. I want to see him be aggressive, not just shooting 3s, but putting pressure on the rim, making defenses react. And defensively, just be solid. Contest, rebound, and don’t put your team in tough spots with fouls.
Q: What would your advice to him be? Where is his confidence at?
A: For me, it’s about composure. The playoffs test your focus more than anything. Don’t force the game, don’t get caught up in emotions. Just stay locked in possession by possession. If he does that, his talent is going to show.
Q: What did you think of Mike Brown replacing Tom Thibodeau and Brown’s coaching influence this season on the Knicks?
A: It’s tough replacing a coach like Thibs, he’s established, and players respect him. I think Mike has done a solid job. He’s defensive-minded, and I like that he wasn’t afraid to use his bench and find pieces during the season. But the real evaluation is now. In the playoffs, it’s about adjustments, rotations, and how your team responds when things get tough. This is the real test.
Q: Who can be an X Factor for the Knicks?
A: Mitchell Robinson stands out. When he’s healthy and active, he impacts the game in ways you can’t teach: rim protection, offensive boards, extra possessions. But I also look at OG [Anunoby] and Bridges. OG can guard anybody on the floor, and if he’s making shots, he can get dangerous. Mikal, same thing, when he’s aggressive, he raises their ceiling.
Q: What do the Knicks need from Jalen Brunson to get to the finals?
A: They need him to control the game and be their leader. He’s proven he can deliver in big moments. Late in games, there’s going to be possessions where it’s on him to go get a bucket. But what takes them to another level is his playmaking. If he’s scoring AND getting others involved, now you’re dealing with a complete offense. If Brunson is dictating tempo and making the right reads, they’ve got a real shot.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: nypost.com
