The Knicks return home to Madison Square Garden for their title-defense opener, which arrives in two weeks, with the championship banner unveiling still pending. Coach Mike Brown addressed the roster in practice, making clear that winning last year will not carry them forward into 2024-25, and outlined the core five—Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Josh Hart—who will play regardless while others compete for remaining minutes. Brown invoked the Warriors' model of maintaining intensity after their championship, emphasizing that avoiding complacency requires daily attention to detail and constant competition. Players throughout the roster have acknowledged both the demanding standards Brown has set and the heightened scrutiny that follows championship success. Per Posting and Toasting, the team's focus is on competing at maximum effort every day, with the understanding that "everybody has a short-term memory" in sports—meaning no championship ring shields anyone from having to prove themselves again.