Draymond Green Doubts Knicks as Finals Contenders

Draymond Green told listeners he doesn't view the New York Knicks as a Finals contender because they simply "don't have what it takes to win at the highest level." He added opponents "can stifle their offense" and pointed to a few "key guys that don't really wanna defend," highlighting defensive holes that matter in a wide-open Eastern Conference. With Mitchell Robinson sidelined and early struggles adapting to Mike Brown's faster offense, New York looks far from a finished product. Merlin sees a team with star talent but familiar cracks: a higher defensive rating in last year's playoffs, Karl‑Anthony Towns still finding fit, and the absence of Robinson's rim protection. If Brown can hide those flaws and health returns, the Knicks can rise — but it will take work.