The New York Knicks are a team that no one wants to be matched with once the NBA playoffs roll around. They’ve proven they can be legitimate Eastern Conference contenders when healthy and have still found success even when they’re not.
Despite missing their entire starting frontcourt more than 21 games apiece, the Knicks remained in the mix for home-court advantage in the NBA Postseason. They still have a chance to move up to the No. 2 seed as they are just three games behind the Milwaukee Bucks. In third place are currently the Cleveland Cavaliers, who New York is a half-game behind.
Being in that position while not having Mitchell Robinson, Julius Randle, and OG Anunoby in the lineup for over a quarter of the season is an impressive feat. There is no timetable for their return to the lineup, as the Knicks are patiently waiting for their return.
New York won’t push them back, as they’ve found a formula that works for them. Tom Thibodeau has been leaning on small-ball lineups recently, which will make his team even more dangerous once the postseason arrives.
How dangerous are the Knicks as a team? According to Basketball-Reference, via KnicksMuse on The Boston Celtics are the overwhelming favorites at 76.5%.