Knicks' Blueprint to Make Deep Run in 2023 NBA Playoffs
The New York Knicks last won an NBA playoff series in 2013.
This group has a chance to not only snap that drought but also potentially push the franchise farther than it's been in decades.
The 'Bockers aren't the favorites to escape the Eastern Conference, but it wouldn't be totally shocking to see them win multiple series. To make that happen, though, they have a few items to check off their to-do list first.
Tighten the Defense
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As impressive as it's been to watch New York bounce back in a big way from last season's disappointment, the manner of its success might be the most impressive part.
The Knicks, who are coached by Tom Thibodeau, aren't winning with defense. Rather, their fifth-ranked offense is carrying their 17th-ranked defense.
That's a testament to a lot of things, not the least of which are Julius Randle's return to stardom and Jalen Brunson's rapid ascension. This offense is legitimately good, and there's no reason to assume it will suddenly collapse when the playoffs tip.
What's more exciting, though, is the potential for growth on the opposite end. With Thibodeau on the sideline, Mitchell Robinson manning the middle and players such as Josh Hart and Quentin Grimes on the wings, this team has the backbone of a top-10 defense. At least.
If the Knicks can elevate their defense while maintaining their offensive efficiency, they could hit history's hallmarks of full-fledged contenders.
Increase Josh Hart's Aggressiveness
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Whatever the internal expectations were for Josh Hart prior to his deadline arrival, he has clearly shattered them.
Through any lens, his short tenure with the team looks like a masterpiece. The 28-year-old has been a nightly source of 11.1 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists, and that might be the least impressive part of his statistical profile.
His 60.6/55.6/78.0 shooting slash is mesmerizing—even if it isn't sustainable. His net differential feels like something out of basketball folklore. New York has fared a whopping 19.7 points better per 100 possessions with him than without, per NBA.com.
So, what could Hart possibly do better? Well, he could look for his own shot more. He only takes 6.5 per night, which feels less like playing a role and more like being too passive. When he seeks out shots, the Knicks are unbeatable. He has taken eight or more in four games with New York; the team won all four games by at least 15 points.
Find Right Role for Obi Toppin
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The Knicks have spawned about a zillion success stories on this squad, but Obi Toppin isn't one of them.
In fact, the No. 8 pick from the 2020 draft has faded too far in the background. Obviously, he can't get a ton of floor time with Randle in front of him, but he is down to just 14.3 minutes per night.
And the 25-year-old is clearly having trouble establishing his rhythm with such a small workload. He came into this campaign as a career 52.1 percent shooter, but his field-goal percentage has plummeted to 42.
He can give the Knicks more than this. He has the hops to finish above the rim, enough handles to slip around slower defenders and a three-ball that runs hot on his good nights. He could be a helpful piece of a postseason rotation.
But Toppin needs a role expansion, even if it isn't a dramatic one. The Knicks have given him 20-plus minutes seven times this season. They are 5-2 in those contests.
