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By Anne Erickson
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There's no way to call the New York Knicks underdogs anymore.
Now, they're the team to beat.
The Knicks enter the season in a different position than they've been used to in the past. They aren't looking for respect anymore. They're the defending champions, and now every team on the schedule will be looking to knock them off.
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The offseason was less about making a big splash and more about keeping the roster financially manageable. That's easier said than done.
Owner James Dolan made it clear the Knicks needed to avoid the second apron, which played a major role in the decision not to bring back Mitchell Robinson. The longtime center left in free agency and signed with the Celtics, ending his time as one of New York's most important defensive pieces.
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Replacing Robinson will be Andre Drummond. He brings a different style to the position. He isn't the same type of defender Robinson was, but he has spent years making an impact through rebounding, physical play and interior presence. For a Knicks team that relies on toughness and controlling possessions, that experience could still be valuable.
The front office isn't done looking, either. New York is expected to continue exploring options for another backup big to add more depth behind the starters.
Beyond the center position, the Knicks had a productive offseason by keeping key pieces in place. Re-signing Landry Shamet, Jordan Clarkson and Jose Alvarado on deals below early market expectations gave the team more stability without creating additional financial issues.
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The Knicks don't have to make dramatic changes after reaching the top. The focus is on maintaining what worked while finding small ways to get better. Chemistry, depth and health become even more important when every opponent is bringing its best effort.
Losing Robinson will be noticeable, especially on defense. But New York still has the core that won a title and the confidence that comes with knowing it can win when the pressure is super high.
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