The New York Knicks have emerged as one of the top teams in the NBA this season. Their performance this season has sparked excitement in the fans and team alike, posing them to make a significant push in the playoffs come springtime. However, some skeptics may point to the lack of difficulty in their schedule. That critique holds a bit of truth, as only six of their wins this season came against teams in the top eight of the Eastern Conference. Despite that critique, the Knicks are still on a hot streak, winning their last eight games.
New York Knicks So Far This Season
One key to New York’s success has been its offensive performance on the court. New York has the second-best offensive rating at 120.1, just behind the team with the best record, the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Knicks hold a 17-7 record against Eastern Conference opponents. Defensively, they are 14th in defensive rating, an area they want to improve. The Knicks finished 2024 strong, winning 18 of their last 22 games.
New York last lost in the NBA Cup Quarterfinals against the Atlanta Hawks on Dec 11. Since then, the Knicks have been on a hot streak.
Jalen Brunson continues to play superb ball for the Knicks, averaging 25.5 points per game, 3.0 rebounds, 7.7 assists, and 0.8 steals. Brunson recently passed Walt Fraizer in 30-point games with the Knicks. He dropped 55 points against the Washington Wizards in a 136-132 Knick victory on Dec 28.
Due to their balanced scoring, New York broke another record by becoming the first team ever to have four players score 40 or more in a game before Jan 1. The players were Jalen Brunson (55 points vs. Washington on Dec 28), OG Anunboy (40 points vs. Denver on Nov 25), Karl-Anthony Towns (done twice), and Mikal Bridges (41 points vs. San Antonio on Christmas Day). New York’s balanced offense has helped maintain its discipline and they have done a good job of not forcing things in games. .
New York’s Progression This Season
Playing at Madison Square Garden has made a difference for the Knicks. They are 10-4 at home and have been good on the road as well with a 13-6 record. With the revelation of their home record, New York has extra momentum come 2025. In January, they will play 15 games, and 11 will be at home. Having a home-court advantage puts the Knicks in a very favorable position to stay on their hot streak. At 23-10, New York trails the Celtics by a loss and trail the Cavaliers by six games in the win column.
Conclusion
New York has set itself up handsomely for success this season. If they can continue their hot streak and hang with Boston and Cleveland, the Knicks will surely make a big push in the playoffs. The Knickerbockers have done a great job facilitating and scoring after a slightly slow start.
Although some may point to their lack of competition, it does not dismiss their consistent play on offense or impressive records on home and the road. New York will open 2025 on New Year’s night at home against the Utah Jazz.
The post How The Knicks Stack Up So Far This Season appeared first on Last Word On Basketball.