It was a solid season for the New York Knicks but they were unable to reach the NBA Finals, extending their drought.
Of course, the Knicks finished the regular season third in the Eastern Conference standings and they were then able to make a deep playoff run.
New York eliminated the Detroit Pistons in the first round before knocking off the defending champion Boston Celtics in the second round to reach the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000.
Jalen Brunson
New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) reacts with guard Jalen Brunson (11).
© Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Unfortunately for the Knicks, this season’s Conference Finals ended just like the one in 2000 as they were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers.
While the Knicks were unable to reach the NBA Finals this season, former NBA player Chandler Parsons believes that their season was still a success.
“This season was a huge success...they did knock off the Celtics. They did tread water without Jalen Brunson for that month. ... I think the Knicks will be right back here next season,” Parsons said.
This is a bold take by Parsons but he does make a great point as the Knicks exceeded expectations this season.
Of course, New York did upgrade their roster last summer by adding Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges to their core of Brunson, OG Anunoby and Josh Hart, which many believed could make them into contenders.
During the regular season, the Knicks were able to remain in third in the East for most of the season and they then showed their potential in the playoffs, especially during their season against the Celtics.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11), forward OG Anunoby (8), and center Karl-Anthony Towns (32)
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11), forward OG Anunoby (8), and center Karl-Anthony Towns (32)
© John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
With the Celtics now set to be without Jayson Tatum due to his Achilles injury, the Knicks have a chance to make another deep playoff run next season as long as they are able to outfight the Cleveland Cavaliers and Pacers.
If they are able to do so along with upgrading their roster in this summer, the Knicks may be in prime position to end their championship drought next season.