Despite entering the new NBA season as defending champions, Josh Hart insists the New York Knicks are approaching their title defense with the same hunger that powered their championship run last season.
Hart, who attended the U.S. Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Wednesday, spoke during ESPN’s broadcast and made it clear that the Knicks are not feeling the pressure of having a target on their backs. Instead, he believes doubts about New York’s chances of repeating can provide extra motivation.
“I don’t think we have a big target because I don’t think anyone is picking us to win again,” Hart said. “We’re using it as fuel, we’re still the hunters, we’re not satisfied with one.
“Obviously, the next goal is to get another. So we’re the hunters and we like playing that game.”
New York captured its first NBA championship since 1973 last season following a dominant playoff campaign. The Knicks defeated the Atlanta Hawks in six games in the opening round before sweeping both the Philadelphia 76ers and Cleveland Cavaliers to emerge as Eastern Conference champions.
They carried that momentum into the NBA Finals, where they overwhelmed the San Antonio Spurs in five games to complete their championship run.
However, repeating the achievement is expected to be difficult. The league underwent a dramatic offseason, while the Eastern Conference has become increasingly competitive ahead of the new campaign.
Recent NBA history also highlights the challenge facing New York. No team has won consecutive championships since the Golden State Warriors captured back-to-back titles in 2017 and 2018, reflecting the level of parity across the league.
Hart, though, appears more interested in getting the season underway than worrying about predictions surrounding the Knicks. New York will begin its campaign on Oct. 20 at Madison Square Garden against LeBron James and the rival Philadelphia 76ers.
Opening night will also provide Hart and his teammates with the opportunity to receive their championship rings in front of the home crowd.
“I can’t wait to get that ring,” Hart said, “I can’t wait, it’s gonna be a fun one.”
“This will be electrifying.”
For Hart and the Knicks, the celebration will also mark the beginning of another challenge as they attempt to prove last season’s championship was only the start.
