Knicks face skepticism despite recent championship in Eastern Conference outlook

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 2, 2026, 3:27 AM

Last updated Aug 2, 2026

Knicks face skepticism despite recent championship in Eastern Conference outlook
Summary

The New York Knicks are facing early skepticism in the Eastern Conference despite winning the championship weeks ago. Analysts, including Kendrick Perkins on ESPN, are favoring teams like the Philadelphia 76ers due to their offseason additions, including Jaylen Brown and LeBron James. The Knicks, however, return their championship core and swept the 76ers in last season's playoffs, raising questions about the perceived lack of hunger following their title. Jalen Brunson, the Finals MVP, is expected to sign a long-term extension as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

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Status Watch
  • Knicks won the championship against the Spurs just weeks ago.
  • Analysts are ranking the 76ers above the Knicks in early assessments.
  • Jalen Brunson averaged 26.0 points during the finals and won Finals MVP.
  • Knicks swept the 76ers in last season's playoffs.
  • Perkins cited questions about the Knicks' hunger for a repeat title.
Latest Updates
  • 3:27 AMYahoo SportsWhy Knicks Are Already Being Underrated in Eastern Conference
What they're saying
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The Knicks won the title only weeks ago, and national voices are already picking someone else to come out of the East.

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