Knicks Enter 2025–26 as Favorites, But Expectations Are Sky-High
The New York Knicks are stepping into the 2025–26 season with more attention than they have had in decades. A franchise long burdened by mediocrity now finds itself as the Eastern Conference favorite after injuries weakened rival contenders in Boston and Indiana. Yet with that title comes an entirely new type of pressure. The pressure of proving they can sustain success and deliver on the biggest stage. Everything from their preseason schedule to blockbuster trade rumors reflects the mounting expectations surrounding this team. For the Knicks, the spotlight has never burned brighter.
Their five-game preseason slate is a symbol of how far the franchise has come. New York will open with two games under new head coach Mike Brown in Abu Dhabi against the Philadelphia 76ers, marking their first overseas preseason trip since 2019. These international games aren’t just about warm-ups; they signal the Knicks’ arrival as a global draw, a team worth showcasing on basketball’s world stage. Upon returning home, they’ll host Minnesota, Washington, and Charlotte at Madison Square Garden to close out preseason action. The message is clear: this team isn’t preparing for just another season; they’re preparing for the spotlight.
Adding to the intrigue are whispers of a blockbuster trade involving Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo. Analysts argue that pairing Adebayo with Jalen Brunson could give New York one of the best defensive backbones in the league. The idea of Adebayo anchoring the paint while Brunson orchestrates the offense is enticing, especially for a team already seen as the East’s top contender. Still, financial hurdles and the assets required to pull off such a deal make it uncertain. Even so, the fact that the Knicks are tied to such a rumor shows their front office is no longer content with being “good enough.”
The ultimate test comes on October 22nd, when Mike Brown makes his official Knicks coaching debut against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Last year, Cleveland swept the regular-season series, but the Knicks had the deeper playoff run. Facing them again, both on Opening Night and on Christmas Day, sets the tone for whether this Knicks team can back up its new status. Surely both teams will learn a lot about themselves following this game. Winning these early statement games will show whether New York is ready to handle being the hunted instead of the hunters.
The Knicks are no longer chasing respect; they’ve already earned it. Now, they’re chasing proof. The preseason games, trade buzz, and heavyweight opener are not just steps toward another season. They're reminders that the Knicks’ standard has officially changed. In 2025–26, success won’t be defined by surprise wins. It will be measured by whether the Knicks live up to the expectations of being the East’s favorite.
