For Knicks, the only losses that matter are playoff losses

The New York Times argues that regular-season losses are essentially meaningless for the defending champion New York Knicks following their 106-100 opening-night defeat against the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite poor shooting performances from Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, the writer contends that the franchise's real campaign will not begin until the postseason arrives in April.

The game took place directly after a celebratory pregame ceremony at Madison Square Garden where players received championship rings and hoisted their 2025-26 title banner. Head coach Mike Brown lamented that the team looked sluggish, but the column highlights that the team's sole priority remains pursuing consecutive NBA titles rather than regular-season seeding.