The New York Knicks enter the 2025–26 season with heightened expectations. After reaching their first Jap Convention Finals in 25 years, the workforce appears poised to contend in a weakened East. Nonetheless, not everyone seems to be satisfied they may surpass projections.
A Vast-Open Convention
With Tyrese Haliburton and Jayson Tatum sidelined attributable to Achilles accidents, the Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics face uphill battles. That leaves the Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers as early favorites to regulate the East. The Atlanta Hawks, Orlando Magic, and Milwaukee Bucks stay within the combine, however the path seems most favorable for New York or Cleveland.
Hollinger’s Considerations
Regardless of optimism, NBA insider John Hollinger of The Athletic doubts the Knicks can high their 53.5 win projection. His skepticism stems largely from New York’s teaching change. The workforce parted methods with Tom Thibodeau, who led final season’s 51-win marketing campaign, and employed former Sacramento Kings coach Mike Brown.
“The Knicks gained 51 video games final season with a coach (Tom Thibodeau) who’s famend for his willingness to completely disregard any bigger-picture ramifications in pursuit of wins within the right here and now,” Hollinger wrote. “And we’re saying, after changing him, that they’ll win extra regular-season video games this season? The logic doesn’t compute.”
Well being and Depth Points
Hollinger additionally factors out that New York benefitted from exceptional well being final season. Other than heart Mitchell Robinson, the rotation averted main setbacks. He means that type of fortune is unlikely to repeat.
Depth is one other concern, notably within the frontcourt. With second-apron restrictions limiting roster flexibility, the Knicks carry solely 14 gamers. Rookies Pacome Dadiet and Tyler Kolek might occupy the ultimate spots, leaving Hollinger unconvinced about their readiness.
“As a secondary consideration, the depth scenario past the highest eight gamers appears considerably dire, notably at ahead,” he added.
Deal with Playoffs, Not the Common Season
Nonetheless, Hollinger notes that the Knicks’ transfer from Thibodeau to Brown may pay dividends later. Brown is thought for in-game changes and postseason adaptability, qualities that may assist New York advance deeper within the playoffs.
His warning, then, is much less in regards to the Knicks’ title aspirations and extra about their means to navigate the grind of an 82-game season. For now, New York faces the problem of proving that final 12 months’s breakthrough was not a one-year surprise.
