Andre Drummond stayed back in the locker room while the Knicks raised their championship banner and collected their rings ahead of their 106-100 season-opening loss to the 76ers. 

It is understandable that the Knicks weren’t their freshest immediately after an emotional banner and ring ceremony before the game. At times, they looked drained.

It was at 6:57 p.m. that Jalen Brunson’s voice delivered the line Knicks fans have long been waiting for.

The 76ers know the storm they are walking into.

That’s why he has as good a chance as any coach to defy the NBA’s era of parity and lead the Knicks to a repeat championship.