The defending champion New York Knicks opened training camp this week, exactly three weeks out from raising their 2026 NBA championship banner. Jalen Brunson announced he is fully cleared following wrist surgery, removing the biggest health question hanging over the title defense.
The Knicks brought several veterans into camp, including Bruce Brown, John Konchar and James Wiseman, setting up a battle for the final roster spot behind Karl-Anthony Towns. Deuce McBride admitted he is a little disappointed with his contract situation, a subplot worth watching for a second-apron team.
Elsewhere, Detroit's camp is clouded by Jalen Duren's contract standoff, with the All-Star center still unsigned and able to take a $9.6 million qualifying offer. History says champions often start slowly, but in New York, only April matters.