The NBA season kicks off on October 21, heralding the return of “30 previews in 30 days.” As usual, we’ll analyze all teams in the league: summer moves, rosters, projections, and predictions. Today, we turn our attention to the New York Knicks, a franchise primed for a compelling season in the city that never sleeps.
Recap of Last Season
- The New York Knicks’ 2024-25 Record
Last season was a turning point for New York, finishing with a strong 51-31 record, placing third in the Eastern Conference. Their playoff journey was notable, defeating Detroit 4-2 in the first round and taking out the reigning champions, Boston, in another 4-2 series win, capped off with a stunning 119-81 Game 6 victory at Madison Square Garden. However, their run ended in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Pacers (2-4).
The linchpin of this success was Jalen Brunson, the team’s leader and Clutch Player of the Year. He provided decisive performances, often turning games around with critical plays. As the captain, he led the team with a steady hand, transforming their ability to win tightly contested matches.
Early in the season, the roster saw significant changes; Mikal Bridges joined the team, bolstering their lineup, while Karl-Anthony Towns arrived in a major trade that saw Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo heading in the opposite direction. These additions enhanced the team’s spacing and offensive versatility, making them less predictable.
However, the Knicks displayed defensive vulnerabilities, particularly against Indiana, where they struggled with rebounds and rim protection during fast-paced stretches. While these issues weren’t severe, they were sufficient to prevent them from reaching the NBA Finals.
In a twist, coach Tom Thibodeau led the Knicks to their first conference finals appearance in 25 years, but by early June, the organization decided it was time for a change to enter a new phase.
Overall, the Knicks have demonstrated their resurgence, raising expectations beyond simply being a competitive team.
Summer Transactions
- Departures: Tom Thibodeau (coach), Precious Achiuwa, Cam Payne, Delon Wright, PJ Tucker, Marjon Beauchamp
- Extensions: Mikal Bridges, Landry Shamet
- New Arrivals: Mike Brown (coach), Guerschon Yabusele, Jordan Clarkson, Malcolm Brogdon, Alex Len (Exhibit 10), Matt Ryan (Exhibit 10), Garrison Matthews (Exhibit 10), Mohamed Diawara (Two-way contract)
After three seasons filled with intense scrutiny, Tom Thibodeau stepped down. The front office chose to hire Mike Brown, who aims to infuse more dynamism into the team’s strategy, moving away from an overly grinding style to one that encourages pace and intelligence on the court.
Although the summer saw no blockbuster trades, the Knicks made some significant tweaks. Jordan Clarkson adds scoring energy, while Malcolm Brogdon brings stability when Brunson needs a rest. Another intriguing acquisition is Guerschon Yabusele, who adds depth and character to the rotation.
The re-signing of Mikal Bridges is crucial, ensuring continuity around Brunson. Overall, this summer has been marked by smart, albeit quieter, moves that set the stage for a sustained playoff run without overexerting the team.
Recent whispers suggest the Knicks might have their sights set on Giannis Antetokounmpo. It remains to be seen if GM Leon Rose is willing to make a trade and, importantly, at what cost.
The 2025-26 Knicks Roster
- Point Guards: Jalen Brunson, Miles McBride, Tyler Kolek
- Shooting Guards: Mikal Bridges, Jordan Clarkson, Malcolm Brogdon
- Small Forwards: Josh Hart, Pacôme Dadiet, Garrison Matthews (Exhibit 10), Matt Ryan (Exhibit 10)
- Power Forwards: OG Anunoby, Guerschon Yabusele, Mohamed Diawara (Two-way contract)
- Centers: Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, Ariel Hukporti, Alex Len (Exhibit 10)
Starters as projected based on sources close to team dynamics.
In preseason previews, Mike Brown’s starting five appears to be Brunson, Bridges, Anunoby, Towns, and Robinson. This combination offers a balance of intellect, strength, and spacing: Brunson controls the tempo, Bridges and Anunoby contain the perimeter, while Towns stretches the floor and Robinson dominates the paint.
This lineup mirrors the successful combinations seen previously with the Timberwolves featuring Towns and Rudy Gobert, which had also been tested by Thibodeau in the playoffs last season.
Depth on the bench has significantly improved; Josh Hart brings his usual high energy and versatility, while Brogdon stabilizes team play with his game IQ. Jordan Clarkson retains his role as a game-changer capable of shifting momentum rapidly. The addition of Yabusele provides muscle, and there’s youthful energy in the form of Dadiet and Kolek. All in all, the Knicks have developed a hardworking, intense bench that echoes the city’s ethos.
In summary, the Knicks boast a coherent roster that, while not flashy, is poised to challenge for a top-three spot in the Eastern Conference. The experience, continuity, and Brunson’s motor should keep the momentum strong. Time will tell how they perform under Mike Brown’s guidance.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect from the Knicks This Season
There are no more excuses. New York enters this season armed, matured, and ambitious in an Eastern Conference ripe for the taking. With injuries affecting contenders such as Boston’s Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton sidelined for Indiana, the competitive landscape has shifted, paving the way for the Knicks to capitalize.
The team’s stability, depth, and experience provide a solid foundation. Jalen Brunson continues to be the core, a lethal point guard who embodies consistency. Alongside him, Karl-Anthony Towns offers a legitimate offensive threat, capable of punishing defenses both inside and outside, while alleviating pressure off Brunson during critical moments. Mikal Bridges serves as a versatile asset on both ends, Anunoby secures the wings, and Mitchell Robinson does the dirty work in the paint.
A significant shift is the arrival of Mike Brown, replacing Thibodeau, which promises a more fluid and creative offensive style. If the defensive standards remain high, this blend of intelligence and dynamism could turn New York into a winning machine.
With the East wide open and contenders weakened, the Knicks have a substantial opportunity. Their complete roster, strong team dynamics, and positive momentum signal that they are ready to establish themselves among the conference’s elite.
Writer’s prediction: 55 wins – 27 losses, securing a top-two spot in the East alongside the Cleveland Cavaliers, with Madison Square Garden ready to reclaim its place as the epicenter of the basketball world come April.
Meet William, a proud Bethel University alumnus with a fervent passion for lifestyle and culture topics. His keen interest doesn’t stop there; he’s also deeply engrossed in current events of all kinds. William dedicates himself wholeheartedly to this site, thriving on the collaborative energy he shares with Suzanne, his long-standing partner in crime.
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