The New York Knicks enter the 2026-27 NBA season as defending champions after their dominant 94-90 win over the San Antonio Spurs on June 14, 2026. Josh Hart, one of the team's most vocal leaders, recently shared his honest take on what it will take to repeat as NBA champions. The Knicks are riding a four-game winning streak (WWWWL) into the new season, but Hart knows the road ahead won't be easy.
What did Josh Hart say about the Knicks' chances?
Hart, speaking to E! News, emphasized that the Knicks can't assume they'll automatically return to championship form. "Obviously we won last year, but if we think that we're just going to throw the ball up game one and think we're at that level again or we're a championship team, we're kind of playing ourselves," he said. The forward acknowledged the team's confidence but stressed the need for hard work and humility to maintain their elite status.
How does the Eastern Conference look for the Knicks?
The Eastern Conference has undergone major changes, with teams like the 76ers adding LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, while the Celtics lost Brown. The Miami Heat signed Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the Raptors now have Kawhi Leonard. The Indiana Pacers are also getting Tyrese Haliburton back from injury. Despite these shifts, the Knicks remain the favorites on paper, thanks to their continuity and familiarity with each other.
What makes the Knicks different from other contenders?
Unlike their rivals, the Knicks have kept their core intact, only swapping Mitchell Robinson for Andre Drummond. This stability could be their biggest advantage. Hart praised his teammates for staying focused and locked in on improving. "There's a level of confidence, but there's also an honesty about knowing what work needs to get done," he said. The Knicks' ability to balance confidence with humility will be key to their success.
What's next for the New York Knicks?
As the Knicks prepare for the new season, they'll need to prove they can handle the target on their backs. With their recent form (4W-0D-1L) and a strong core, they have the talent to repeat. However, as Hart pointed out, it's all about mentality. The team must stay hungry and humble if they want to bring another championship to New York.
