NEW YORK KNICKS

The Knicks went 51-31 in 2024-25, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals before falling to Indiana, then broke through in 2025-26 with a 53-29 record and their first championship since 1973, defeating San Antonio in five games. Jalen Brunson claimed Finals MVP honors while Karl-Anthony Towns' emergence as a playmaking hub unlocked the offense during the playoff run, averaging eight assists per game over key stretches, elevating both players' cards to championship-level demand. Mitchell Robinson and Ariel Hukporti departed in free agency while the team re-signed key contributors Landry Shamet, Jose Alvarado, and Mohamed Diawara, and added Andre Drummond.

Where they stand: The Knicks enter 2026-27 as defending NBA champions, preparing for their title defense with training camp expected to open in late September and preseason action beginning shortly after. The offseason is nearly complete, with the team still looking to fill out the end of its bench, likely with a third-string center. Preseason games include matchups against the 76ers in Abu Dhabi on October 2 and 4, with the regular season set to tip off in late October.