After acquiring Jalen Brunson, the New York Knicks have reemerged as a top contender in the Eastern Conference. Despite a disappointing Game 7 loss to the Indiana Pacers in last season’s playoffs, the Knicks have made significant strides towards becoming a competitive force again.
This offseason, they further bolstered their roster by trading for Mikal Bridges, reuniting him with former Villanova teammates Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart.
On the Big Knicks Energy podcast, Gillis expressed his disdain for the team. “Yeah, the Knicks f**king suck, dude,” he said. When asked about the Philadelphia 76ers, he added, “Exact same as the f**king Knicks this year, baby. This is your guys’ Super Bowl, still didn’t get a ring.”
Hart responded on X (formerly Twitter) with a light-hearted jab: “Mannnnn I like Shane Gillis…now I got to hate him @Shanemgillis 😂😂.”
Jay-Z, former part-owner of the Brooklyn Nets and a key figure in their move to New York, was recently asked to choose between the rising Knicks and the struggling Nets for the upcoming season. Jay-Z reaffirmed his support for whichever team represents his city.
The trade, which marked just the sixth time the two franchises have struck a deal in almost 40 years, signifies the Nets’ commitment to rebuilding for the 2025 NBA Draft, with future picks going to the Nets from the Rockets.
Contrary to rumors, Nets GM Sean Marks confirmed that Bridges did not request a trade. “There’s no truth to the idea that Mikal wanted to leave,” Marks stated. “He was informed about our decision to make the trade, and it was the best path forward for us.”
However, in a role supporting other stars, Bridges has the potential to shine, which he now has the opportunity to do with the Knicks.
