Why the 2025-26 Knicks are set up to win franchise's first NBA ti
Nothing goes together like sports fans and saying “this is the year” when it almost certainly is not — a tradition the Knicks’ faithful haven't genuinely participated in for decades.
However, coming off their first Conference Finals trip of the millennium with a new coach and bolstered depth, New York is giving its fans a real chance to capture this timeless delusion.
While usually safer to lower expectations, the Knicks are in a real place to compete and believe they can win their first championship in over 50 years.
Here are the reasons fans should think this is the year…
The talent is there and ready to be maximized
Let’s not forget these Knicks came an unlucky bounce and one win away from making the Finals last year, while going through the ringer in the physical Pistons, champion Celtics and eventual runner-up Pacers. They’ve returned largely the same roster, with a coaching change and some depth additions that should assure the roster is reaching its potential.
It didn’t feel that way last year and the numbers reflected it. No Jalen Brunson-led, Karl-Anthony Towns-spaced offense should finish 16th in offensive rating post Jan. 1 — or seventh in the playoffs. And Mike Brown was brought in to help turn that around.
Assuming he adds the necessary offensive zest without jeopardizing the defense, it’s hard to find better rosters on paper. New York has two top players at its respective positions and multiple borderline All-Star level guys to support them, with some of the best bench pieces in the league when productive.
Add onto that Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele and you have the total package. These two not only bring strong individual production, but address specific needs that should keep the returning rotation in their ideal roles and fresher overall.
The East is vulnerable
This isn’t just about how ready the Knicks are to win it all, but how unprepared the rest of their conference is. Make no mistake, anybody is susceptible in a…
