New York Knicks forward Josh Hart says the reigning champions are being counted out for the 2026-27 NBA season, a mindset the team is using as motivation. Hart made the comments while attending the US Open on September 9, just months after the Knicks clinched the title with a 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on June 14, 2026. The team's recent form shows four wins in their last five games, including a current two-game winning streak.
Josh Hart believes the Knicks enter the new season as hunters, not the hunted. "I don't think we have a big target because I don't think anyone is picking us to win again," Hart said. "We're using it as fuel. We're still the hunters. We're not satisfied with one." This underdog mentality comes despite the Knicks being the defending champions, a status that typically puts a target on a team's back.
The Knicks' offseason was relatively quiet. Their main roster change was swapping center Mitchell Robinson for veteran Andre Drummond. This stands in stark contrast to the frantic moves made by their Eastern Conference rivals. Hart's comments suggest the team is comfortable with their internal chemistry and proven system, viewing external doubt as a positive force.
The Philadelphia 76ers made the loudest noise this summer, adding LeBron James and Jaylen Brown to their roster. This creates a starting five loaded with offensive talent, though integrating so many star players may lead to early-season adjustments. The Miami Heat also significantly improved by acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Raptors are expected to sign Kawhi Leonard. Each of these teams presents a major new challenge for the Knicks' path through the playoffs. While these rivals may face growing pains, the Knicks' continuity could be an early advantage.
The Knicks' championship run was a hard-fought battle, especially in the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs. The series included tight games like a 107-106 Knicks win on June 11 and a 111-115 loss on June 9. Their overall playoff performance was strong, punctuated by a dominant 130-93 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 26.
No team has repeated as NBA champion since 2018, highlighting the difficulty of the task ahead. Hart's 'hunter' mentality is directly aimed at breaking that trend. The team's core, including Hart, Jalen Brunson, and Julius Randle, remains intact, providing a foundation of trust and execution. Their recent 4W-0D-1L record indicates they finished the previous season in strong form.
Facing a conference that aggressively retooled to beat them, the Knicks' belief in their own group will be tested. Hart's public embrace of the underdog role sets the tone for a defense that will rely on grit and cohesion as much as pure talent. The first test of their readiness will come soon, and fans can follow the schedule on our schedule page.
