The New York Knicks enter the 2026 NBA season as defending champions, facing heightened scrutiny amid a stronger Eastern Conference and relative offseason quiet. Despite being considered underdogs by some sportsbooks—ranked behind several teams in the title odds—NBA analysts maintain confidence in the Knicks' potential to contend for back-to-back championships.

Veteran commentators Reggie Miller and Jamal Crawford have expressed optimism about the Knicks’ chances, citing the retention of much of their core lineup. Miller noted that, aside from the absence of Mitchell Robinson, the Knicks’ roster remains largely intact. He emphasized Robinson’s significance as a key contributor to the team’s offensive rebounding, which helped generate multiple scoring opportunities. Still, Miller described the team as “battle tested,” having endured challenging playoff runs in prior seasons, which should prepare them for the competition ahead.

Crawford highlighted the value of the Knicks’ veteran leadership and cohesion, pointing to their strong performance last postseason as a foundation for another run. He remarked on the rising competitiveness across the league, noting the elevated intensity observed even during preseason games. The Toronto Raptors, for example, demonstrated a high defensive level early in their preseason matchups, signaling the league-wide appetite for a championship bid.

The Knicks’ last championship came 53 years ago, and Crawford suggested that the current squad is not content with just one title. With coach Mike Brown’s system firmly in place and the team understanding how to execute in clutch moments, the Knicks appear poised to leverage their experience. Jalen Brunson, considered a leading MVP candidate entering the season, was highlighted as a pivotal figure who can ensure sustained focus and accountability within the team.

However, the organization has announced it will not engage in contract negotiations during the season, an unusual strategy that casts uncertainty on the roster’s long-term stability. Key players including Karl-Anthony Towns—whose contract situation has drawn media attention—and Josh Hart hold options for the following year, while Miles McBride is in the final year of his deal. This has raised questions about how long New York’s core will remain together.

Coach Mike Brown has publicly acknowledged the contract issues but stressed that the team’s championship window remains open. Miller expressed hope that contract discussions would not become a distraction, emphasizing that the Knicks have the necessary experience, depth, and coaching to pursue multiple titles.

As the season approaches, the Knicks face both the challenge of elevated competition in the East and the internal pressures of maintaining roster cohesion. Yet, their combination of veteran leadership, a proven system, and strong postseason performance positions them as legitimate contenders to defend their title.