John Starks says the New York Knicks remain the team to beat in the Eastern Conference despite major moves by the Philadelphia 76ers and Miami Heat.
The 76ers have added LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, while Miami have brought in Giannis Antetokounmpo. But Starks believes the Knicks’ status as champions means they should still command the most respect.
Speaking in New York, the former Knicks shooting guard said the side must retain its hunger and underdog mentality when the new season begins.
“They’re getting their respect, but I know coming back into the season you have to be hungry. If they still have that underdog mentality coming into the season, it’s gonna be good for them,” Starks said.
He acknowledged that Philadelphia’s revamped team would present a serious challenge, pointing to James and Brown alongside Tyrese Maxey and young prospect VJ Edgecombe.
“Their teams are gonna be good. You can’t discount them,” Starks said. He also recognised the threat posed by Antetokounmpo and the Heat, adding: “We got a lot to fight for this upcoming season.”
Some bookmakers have made the 76ers favourites to emerge from the Eastern Conference following their off-season recruitment. Starks, however, suggested James is now operating more as a “facilitator” than the dominant player of earlier years.
Knicks point guard Jose Alvarado also dismissed concerns over those who doubt the team, saying: “It’s New York — they’re gonna hate regardless. We like the respect we get, but it is what it is.”
