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Three teams could challenge Knicks' title defense this season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 7, 2026, 10:36 AM

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

Three teams could challenge Knicks' title defense this season

Summary

The New York Knicks, fresh off winning the 2026 NBA Finals, aim to repeat as champions in the 2026-27 season. However, they face significant challenges from three teams: the San Antonio Spurs, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Philadelphia 76ers. The Spurs, motivated by their finals loss to New York, are bolstered by their talented roster, including Victor Wembanyama. The Thunder are coming off a successful season, featuring MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a deep lineup. The 76ers, now adding LeBron James, aim to reshape their identity after being swept by the Knicks in the previous playoffs. The Knicks' title defense will be tested early against Philadelphia on opening night.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Knicks won the 2026 NBA Finals and seek to repeat.
•Spurs aim for redemption after losing to Knicks last season.
•Thunder had a 68-win regular season and recent championship.
•LeBron James joins 76ers, altering their playoff prospects.
•Knicks face 76ers on opening night.

Latest Updates

10:36 AMYahoo Sports — 3 NBA Teams That Could Ruin Knicks’ Chances of a Championship Repeat

What they're saying

"
The New York Knicks have something every defending champion eventually gets: a much bigger target on their backs. 3 NBA Teams That Could Keep the Knicks from Repeating After winning the 2026 NBA Finals, New York is heading into the 2026-27 season hoping to do something even harder: repeat as champions. The road back won't …
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

New York Knicks Oklahoma City Thunder Philadelphia 76ers San Antonio Spurs NBA Basketball