The curse of the NBA Cup winner haunts the New York Knicks

The recent downfall of the New York Knicks seems to breathe new life into an idea that is gaining momentum in the league: the so-called NBA Cup curse remains very much present. After celebrating their victory against the San Antonio Spurs, the New York team has entered an uncomfortable dynamic that contrasts with the enthusiasm that surrounded their tournament triumph.

The momentum generated by the victory quickly dissipated. Although Jalen Brunson has maintained a solid and consistent level night after night, the team as a whole has lost its fluidity. Mike Brown, in his first season as the head coach of the Knicks, has had to navigate this complex stretch while trying to maintain the group's stability and prevent the losing streak from turning into something deeper.

A recurring sensation is beginning to spread throughout the NBA: teams that win the NBA Cup tend to pay the price shortly after. In the case of New York, the numbers support this perception. The Knicks have only won five of their last eleven games, all of which came after the victory against San Antonio. The celebration is in the past, but the calendar continued relentlessly.

The most forceful blow came against the Detroit Pistons, in a defeat by 121-90 that left a troubling image. It was one of those nights that drained the bench of energy and turned the next practice into a much more intense session. The organization even chose to not raise the NBA Cup banner, making it clear that the real goal is in June, not December. Yet, the debate persists. The emotional high, physical toll, and difficulty in getting back to the usual rhythm continue to loom over the team. The fans perceive it, and so does the locker room.

A Pattern that Repeats and a New Challenge for New York

The supposed curse of the NBA Cup follows a simple script: win and then falter. The Lakers had a record of 3-7 after winning the tournament. The Bucks ended up 5-5 after defeating Oklahoma City. Now, the Knicks have a record of 5-5 in their ten games following the title. It's not a complete collapse nor a resounding comeback, but a phase of flat basketball after a great emotional climb. A sort of winter hangover that is reflected in the numbers once again.

Despite everything, Brunson continues to play with control and maturity, while Mike Brown keeps adjusting rotations and pace in search of solutions. The problems are identified: difficulties in execution in close finishes, defensive breakdowns in transition, and brief lapses that turn into significant opponent runs. However, there is still room to react. Health can help define roles more clearly, and the Madison Square Garden has the power to change a team's energy in a matter of minutes.

Under the bright lights, the question remains open: is the NBA Cup curse truly inevitable or are the Knicks on the verge of breaking the pattern and turning this uncomfortable streak into a tougher, yet more constructive turning point?

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, La maldición del ganador de la NBA Cup acecha a New York Knicks