New York, NY — One game into the 2025/26 campaign, the New York Knicks are emphasizing patience, health and roster depth rather than labeling the season “championship-or-bust.” Speaking with RG.org, All-Star forward-center Karl-Anthony Towns said every NBA club shares the same title aspirations when training camp opens.
“I feel all 30 teams in the NBA are walking in saying the same thing,” Towns explained. “We’re just focusing on being the best version of ourselves every single day.”
Towns revealed after Wednesday’s season-opening victory over Cleveland that he is playing through a Grade 2 strain in his right quadriceps. The Knicks dismissed previous head coach Tom Thibodeau during the summer after their first Eastern Conference Finals berth in 25 years, replacing him with veteran bench boss Mike Brown.
Robinson to sit again
Center Mitchell Robinson will miss his second consecutive contest Friday in Boston due to what the club terms “left ankle injury management.” The 27-year-old has appeared in only 48 regular-season games across the last two years and has undergone two surgeries on the same ankle.
Brown’s fast pace, extended rotation
Brown signaled a clear departure from Thibodeau’s shorter rotations during Wednesday’s opener, using 11 players and pushing the tempo. “I truly believe this team is a deep team,” Brown said. “It’s my job to keep trying to find combinations that work.” He added that he may not deploy 11 players every night, but wants everyone ready when called upon.
Young pieces earn minutes
Second-year guard Tyler Kolek and sophomore center Ariel Hukporti, sparingly used as rookies, drew floor time in the opener. Brown praised both for staying within their roles, saying, “We don’t need anybody to play hero ball. Play to your strengths.”
McBride moves into starting lineup
Guard Miles McBride delivered 15 points on seven shots and posted a team-best plus-17 in 26 minutes against Cleveland. Brown confirmed McBride will start Friday versus the Celtics.
Source: Hoops Rumors
