MILWAUKEE - Knicks fans might be feeling a bit uneasy as the team gears up for their 60th game of the season. With recent losses to Detroit and Cleveland, it's been a bit of a roller coaster ride. But Knicks coach Mike Brown isn’t hopping on that ride.
Since the preseason, Brown has been vocal about his championship aspirations for the team. Even after one of their roughest losses, he’s standing firm in his belief that the Knicks can go all the way.
“I truly believe it,” Brown stated. “But there are things that need to align.
You’ve got to be playing your best basketball and stay connected. Sacrifice is key.
If players aren’t willing to sacrifice, it can disrupt the team’s chemistry, which is crucial. A competitive spirit is essential, and the belief has to be there, even when things get tough.”
After a challenging game in Cleveland, the Knicks (37-22) took a breather and hit the practice court with renewed focus. Jalen Brunson summed it up: “Cleveland was just a bad game for us.” The team is clear that their sights are set beyond regular-season performance, aiming for postseason success where true evaluations will be made.
The Knicks aren’t built just for the regular season. After Tom Thibodeau was let go despite leading them to the Eastern Conference finals, the expectations for Brown were clear. Madison Square Garden chairman James Dolan even went on record saying he believes the team should reach and potentially win the NBA Finals.
“Everything is geared toward peaking at the end of the season and into the playoffs,” Brown explained. “I’ve never been one to panic over a single game. Life averages out, and we aim to be in a strong position heading into the postseason.”
Karl-Anthony Towns echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the ongoing adjustments with a new system and coach. “We’re still a work in progress,” Towns said, focusing on maximizing the team’s potential.
Despite only taking five shots in Cleveland, Towns remained upbeat and dismissed any lingering trade rumors. The trade deadline has passed, and the Knicks are focused on their current roster and goals.
“At the end of the day, accountability is crucial,” Brown emphasized. “Everyone, including myself, has moments of slippage. We have to hold each other accountable to improve and uplift the team.”
Brown highlighted that while outsiders may focus on stats and defense, the real key to a championship lies in talent and embracing team standards. “If we can maximize our standards every time we hit the floor, that’s what will push us over the top.”