Although the Knicks made a breakthrough last season by advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since the 1999–2000 campaign, questions remain about whether the team will retain the same starting five heading into the upcoming season.
According to Kristian Winfield of the New York Daily News, there is considerable internal momentum to stick with the lineup that proved successful during the playoff run.
Head coach Brown has emphasized a desire to maintain a high-tempo, up-tempo style of play – something that continuity in the starting unit could help reinforce.
Still, Winfield points out that changes are being considered, particularly when it comes to defensive versatility.
Center Mitchell Robinson, who has dealt with injuries but remains a valuable interior defender and rebounder, could be reinserted into the starting lineup.
Doing so might not only improve the team’s rim protection but also help appease Robinson, whose long-term role with the franchise is still being evaluated.
Winfield explores a variety of possible configurations the Knicks might experiment with.
These include lineups featuring Robinson as a defensive anchor, guard Miles McBride for additional backcourt toughness, and newly added forward Guerschon Yabusele for his physicality and international experience.
Perhaps most intriguingly, Winfield mentions Pacome Dadiet – a young, athletic wing with significant upside – as a wildcard candidate for a starting role, signaling the team’s openness to experimentation and future-focused development.
Knicks Notes: Coaching Staff, Starting Lineup, Youth, Brown https://t.co/lxNBytHRrR pic.twitter.com/rrzioE9xk8
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) July 25, 2025
