Knicks’ Josh Hart Embraces ‘Hunter’ Mindset Ahead of Championship Defense

New York Knicks forward Josh Hart says the reigning NBA champions are approaching the 2026-27 season with a chip on their shoulder, despite coming off the franchise’s first title in 53 years. Speaking with John McEnroe and Chris Fowler during ESPN’s U.S. Open coverage Wednesday night, Hart pushed back on the notion that the team enters the year as the hunted.

“I don’t think we have a big target because I don’t think anyone’s picking us to win again,” Hart said. “So we’re using it as fuel, man, we’re still the hunters. We’re not satisfied with one.”

Oddsmakers appear to back up Hart’s framing. Per FanDuel — the sportsbook owned by Flutter Entertainment — the Knicks are tied with LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers as the third favorite to win next season’s title, trailing only the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs.

The championship defense begins in dramatic fashion: New York hosts James and a retooled 76ers squad at Madison Square Garden on Oct. 20, which will also serve as the team’s Ring Night celebration.

“I can’t wait to get that ring,” Hart said. “I can’t wait, so this will be a fun one. It will be electrifying.”

Hart’s courtside appearance came as he watched top seed Alexander Zverev, whose ritual of bouncing the ball 18 to 20 times before serving drew a playful comparison to Hart’s Knicks and former Villanova teammate Jalen Brunson — with the veteran forward taking a lighthearted jab at his star point guard’s tendency to slow the pace.

What to watch

Betting markets on the 2026-27 title will continue to shift as rosters shake out ahead of opening night. The Knicks’ Oct. 20 ring night matchup against Philadelphia at Madison Square Garden offers the first on-court look at the defending champions, with the national broadcast airing on The Walt Disney Company‘s ESPN. Preseason injuries, trades, and updated sportsbook odds will also shape expectations for New York’s title defense.

Source: original release