Knicks make unfortunate NBA Champion history not seen since 2012

The New York Knicks have entered uncharted territory in NBA history, becoming the first reigning champions to lose their first two games of a season since the 2011-12 Dallas Mavericks. After dropping a nail-biting 107-103 decision to the Boston Celtics on Friday night at TD Garden, the Knicks find themselves 0-2. This unfortunate turn of events puts them in the same company as the Mavericks, who went on to lose their first three games after their championship season.

Since then, every other reigning champion has managed to secure at least one win in their opening two contests, with the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors leading the pack with a breathtaking 24-0 start. The swift decline of the Knicks from championship champions to early-season losers has left their franchise celebrating just days ago with a stark and jarring contrast.

The party was short-lived, as the Philadelphia 76ers quickly spoiled the moment with a 106-100 victory, fueled by 28 points from Tyrese Maxey and the debut performances of LeBron James and Jaylen Brown. New York's efforts to claw their way back from a 12-point deficit in the final minutes of Friday's game fell short, as Jayson Tatum dominated the fourth quarter, scoring seven of Boston's final eight points and finishing with 36 points.

Karl-Anthony Towns led the Knicks with 22 points, while OG Anunoby contributed 20 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, and Deuce McBride chipped in 20 points off the bench. However, Brunson's inconsistent performance, shooting just 6-of-19 against Philadelphia and contributing 19 points in Boston, has raised concerns for the team.

New York is also dealing with the absence of Mitchell Robinson, who signed with Boston after the season, and will be hoping to turn their fortunes around with a home game against the Orlando Magic on Sunday, seeking their first victory as defending champions.