​Josh Hart doesn’t believe that the New York Knicks are the “hunted” despite entering the 2026-27 season as the reigning NBA champions. In an interview at the US Open quarterfinals between Alexander Zverev and Botic van de Zandschulp, the 31-year-old detailed the team’s mindset ahead of the new campaign.“I don’t think we have a big target (on our back) because I don’t think anyone is picking us to win again. So we’re using it as fuel; we’re still the hunters. We’re not satisfied with one; the next goal is to get another. So we’re the hunters, and we like playing that game,” Hart said.Feb 10, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guards Josh Hart (3) and Jalen Brunson (11) react during overtime against the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images“For us, it’s about helping each other. We all are high-character guys, and we realized that if everyone is willing to sacrifice, you don’t have egos, and you’re not selfish, then you’re going to get far. You’re going to get where you want to be at the end of the season,” he added.Many believe that the New York Knicks won’t be successful in defending their title this upcoming season, especially after losing Mitchell Robinson to free agency and their rivals getting stronger, namely the Philadelphia 76ers. But as Hart mentioned, the team will use this as motivation.Jun 8, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) shoots against San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) in the third quarter during game three of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesNew York Knicks have two free agents on their radar ahead of training campThe New York Knicks retooled their roster this summer to avoid the luxury tax’s second apron, leaving them with enough money to add another veteran minimum contract. Per Ian Begley of SNY, the team is eyeing two free agents.“(John) Konchar, recently waived and stretched after a trade to Minnesota, is known as a strong rebounder/defender/offensive connector who can knock down perimeter shots over his seven-year NBA career. (Drew) Eubanks’ 2025-26 season in Sacramento was cut short in March following surgery to repair a UCL tear in his left thumb. The 6-foot-10 veteran would presumably be competing with a couple of other big men for the Knicks’ third center spot,” Begley wrote in his mailbag.The New York Knicks also have other big decisions to make in the coming weeks, including extension talks with Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart, and Miles McBride.More NBA News:New York Knicks’ Josh Hart Gets 100% Real on His Future After Being Eligible for New Lucrative ExtensionNew York Knicks Could Reportedly Lose Key Bench Piece After Mitchell Robinson Amid Expiring Contract“It Took Us To A Whole Another Level” – Jalen Brunson Praises Knicks Teammate With Surprising AssessmentNew York Knicks’ Championship Run Last Se