The New York Knicks captured the 2025-26 NBA championship, ending a 53-year title drought. The victory marks the eighth straight season with a different champion.
The Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs in the Finals to claim their first title since 1973. The team built around Jalen Brunson reached the pinnacle after years of roster construction under president Leon Rose.
New York enters the offseason as defending champions with strong prospects to repeat. They hold the fourth-best odds for the 2027 title at plus-750 according to FanDuel.
Financial constraints including the second apron and luxury tax will shape retention efforts. The Knicks have roughly $13 million below the second apron and must decide on free agents such as Mitchell Robinson and Landry Shamet.
Brunson's earlier contract discount helped the team stay flexible enough to acquire Karl-Anthony Towns and make key moves. The organization now faces decisions on extensions for Towns and Josh Hart while preparing for higher tax bills starting in 2027-28.
