New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown said he is not letting owner James Dolan’s reported demand for an NBA Finals appearance dictate his day-to-day decisions.
“I’m coaching to win,” Brown told reporters when asked about Dolan’s mandate. “That’s the only thing I’m focused on.”
Dolan’s instruction, first revealed this week, sets an unmistakable expectation for the 2026 season. Brown acknowledged the owner’s stance but insisted the directive does not change how he prepares the team.
“Our job is the same every night—compete, improve and put ourselves in the best position to win,” the coach added. “Big-picture goals don’t matter if we don’t handle the next practice and the next game.”
The Knicks open training camp later this month before launching their quest for the franchise’s first championship since 1973.
Source: New York Post
