DETROIT — James Dolan is finally speaking out.
The owner of the Knicks is set to join WFAN on Monday at 5:30 p.m. as part of Craig Carton’s show, according to the radio host.
His last media engagement regarding the Knicks and Rangers was in January 2023, when he spoke with Carton during the same program.
Since then, the Knicks parted ways with coach Tom Thibodeau and brought in Mike Brown, despite the team reaching the conference finals for the first time since 2000. They also claimed the NBA Cup, though they opted not to raise the banner.
Dolan hasn’t publicly commented on these moves yet. Brown, who frequently discusses strategies with Dolan after home games, has acknowledged the owner’s contributions and high expectations.
“Looking at the team on paper, there’s a sense that we have a genuine shot at winning it all,” Brown remarked. “We’re focused on competing at a high level, and I believe we have an opportunity because of the talent we possess, along with Coach Leon Rose and Jim Dolan.” It’s a chance.
The Knicks hold a 23-12 record, placing them second in the East, trailing the Pistons by three games (26-9). The two teams are scheduled to meet on Monday night in Detroit.
This is the first time since 1993 that the Knicks have held such a strong position in the conference.
Unfortunately, Josh Hart will miss the game against the Pistons due to a sprained ankle, marking his sixth consecutive absence. The Knicks have recorded a 2-3 record since his injury.
Landry Shamet is also out after his shoulder injury from November 22 and is awaiting clearance to participate in contact drills.
The Pistons will be without key players Jalen Duren (ankle) and Tobias Harris (hip).
Brown has also been emphasizing to his players the importance of not arguing with referees. “Officials are human too,” he stated following the Knicks’ 130-119 loss to the 76ers on Saturday. “They’ll make good calls and bad calls. We can’t let officiating dictate our games; it’s on us to secure the win. Even when we foul late, they hit 23 free throws while we committed 32 fouls. We need to concentrate on our gameplay.”
Interestingly, sources suggest that building a better rapport with officials was a key attribute the Knicks were looking for in a new coach, which may have led to Thibodeau’s dismissal.
