Knicks Aim to Reverse Troubling Trend Before Playoffs
The Knicks have gone an extended stretch without beating a team above .500. Their last such victory was March 6 in Denver against the Nuggets.
Since that game they are 0-5 versus teams with winning records. All five defeats came on the road. Opponents included the Lakers, Clippers, Hornets, Thunder and Rockets.
Closing slate
The regular season ends with four games against above-.500 opponents. The run opens in Atlanta against the Hawks.
That trip is followed by three home dates. The Knicks will host the Celtics, Raptors and Hornets to finish the season.
Players and coaches respond
Josh Hart stressed focus after practice. He said the team must treat each game like a one-off. The emphasis is on being ready mentally and physically for every opponent.
Coach Mike Brown admitted recent losses exposed problems. He praised Charlotte, Oklahoma City and Houston for playing well. Brown added the team did not execute in some areas.
Landry Shamet urged consistency in approach. He said the squad must balance playoff preparation with attention to each nightly challenge.
Key issues to fix
- Offense has become stagnant at times late in games.
- Ball movement has narrowed, leaning on Jalen Brunson too much.
- Poor starts have cost momentum early in contests.
- Transition defense has regressed from second-half improvements.
Strategic considerations
Brown indicated the team will avoid showing every look before the playoffs. He wants to keep options hidden for postseason use.
All four remaining opponents are Eastern Conference playoff or play-in teams. That raises the stakes for these final matchups.
Outlook
Last season’s regular-season struggles versus top teams did not define the Knicks in the playoffs. But coaches and players caution against assuming outcomes will change automatically.
These final four games offer four chances to quiet a worrying narrative. Filmogaz.com will track whether the Knicks Aim to Reverse Troubling Trend Before Playoffs.
