Knicks Eye Title Push After Coaching Change

Entering the 2025-26 season under new coach Mike Brown, the Knicks are seen as legitimate title contenders as the Eastern Conference opened up after season-ending Achilles injuries to Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton. Brown’s youth-friendly, development-focused approach has already produced more preseason opportunities for rookies and young players. Management added depth in the wings and backcourt, highlighted by veteran scorer Jordan Clarkson—now viewed as a potential Sixth Man of the Year—and second-round pick Mohamed Diawara, who earned a standard one-year NBA deal after strong Summer League and preseason showings. The team also boasts versatile frontcourt options: Karl-Anthony Towns can slide to center and Ariel Hukporti is poised for an expanded backup role if Mitchell Robinson’s minutes are managed due to health concerns. If Brown’s trust in younger players pays off and the supporting cast develops as hoped, the Knicks believe they have the pieces to mount a serious championship push.