Knicks earn spot in postseason on their day off

It isn’t far-fetched to suggest that things worked out perfectly for the New York Knicks on Monday. 

Despite not having a game on Mar. 30, New York managed to earn a spot in the 2026 postseason with less than 10 regular-season games remaining.

“The Knicks are officially the third Eastern Conference team to clinch a spot in the 2026 NBA Playoffs,” SNY’s John Flanigan wrote.

“While Monday was an off day for New York, they were able to lock up their spot with the (Philadelphia) 76ers’ loss to the (Miami) Heat.”

Things didn’t look promising for Jalen Brunson and the Knicks on Jan. 19. The 2024 Eastern Conference Finals participants suffered a 114-97 loss to the Dallas Mavericks at home, extending their losing streak to four games and dropping 25-18 on the year. 

At the time, there was speculation that New York could explore a blockbuster trade for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo to help them get back on track. 

Obviously, the Knicks didn’t land the two-time MVP, but it appears they don’t need his services to have a successful 2025-26 campaign. New York boasts an impressive 48-27 record in late March and will have a legitimate chance to represent the Eastern Conference in this year’s rendition of the NBA Finals. 

The Knicks must put it all together in the playoffs, but there’s no doubt that the vibes in New York are far more positive than they were two months ago.

More NBA: Warriors sign 6-foot-11 former Thunder, Heat center to help Stephen Curry, again