Knicks' honeymoon phase over already? Behind the champs' slow start
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- After winning the NBA championship last season, New York Knicks coach Mike Brown emphasized the need for continued focus and hard work, anticipating early adversity in the new season.
- The Knicks started the 2026-27 season with an 0-3 record, becoming only the third defending champion in NBA history to lose their first three games, highlighting struggles with turnovers, defense, and closing out games.
- New York’s shooting efficiency has significantly declined, with key players like Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges underperforming, resulting in the team ranking near the bottom in points per possession and half-court scoring efficiency.
- The Knicks face a critical upcoming schedule with opportunities to rebound against weaker opponents, but improvement in organization, physicality, and execution is essential to avoid a prolonged slump.
- Leadership from Brunson and collective team effort will be crucial as the Knicks confront early-season challenges, with pressure mounting to respond positively to adversity and maintain their championship standard.
