By Eddie Castro
The 2025-26 NBA season is here, and for the New York Knicks, the season comes with arguably the highest expectations the franchise has had in some time. Last year, New York came within two games of their first NBA Finals appearance in 25 Years before eventually falling to the Indiana Pacers in six games. In that series, the Knicks were out-hustled and out-coached. General Manager Gersson Rosas and President Leon Rose knew change was needed if the team were to take the next step.
The Knicks parted ways with Head Coach Tom Thibodeau after five seasons and hired Mike Brown to be his successor. He (Brown) comes with a very successful resume across three decades of coaching in the NBA. Although Brown may not come as the most attractive name on the coaching market, he is a coach that has proven to be a significant contributor wherever he has been.
As an assistant coach, Brown has won four NBA Championships, one with the San Antonio Spurs (2003) and three with the Golden State Warriors (2017, 2018 2022). He’s also took the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Finals with LeBron James in 2007 as a Head Coach. Brown will now have the opportunity to do what Thibodeau was not able to do. Another issue the Knicks had last year was their bench production. It was one of the main issues the team had that ultimately decided their playoff fate last year.
Going into the off-season the Knicks knew they needed to add some production from their bench. The team added Jordan Clarkson. Clarkson currently has the most points scored off the bench by an active player. The Knicks also signed the French born Guerschon Yabusele. Yabusele played a huge part in the 76ers last year with his ability to score, create spacing and bring energy. He adds yet another option to a revamped Knicks bench.
The number one concern for the Knicks is without a doubt health. Karl Anthony-Towns dealt with a nagging knee and thumb injury throughout the playoffs. Although Jalen Brunson he many wow moments during last year’s playoffs, it’s safe to say Jalen Brunson wasn’t 100% with the ankle injury he suffered last year.
If this Knicks team can find a way to rekindle that magic, they had most of last year and with opposing super star players out for the season like Tyrese Haliburton and Jayson Tatum, New York appears to have a clear pathway to the NBA Finals. The only question is can they put it all together and how long will it take for Brunson and company to adapt to a more up tempo style offense by Mike Brown? One thing that is for sure, Madison Square Garden will be rocking all year long.
Sports Notes: (Basketball) After kicking off their season against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the New York Knicks battle Jaylen Brown and the Boston Celtics on Friday night at Madison Square Garden.