Knicks Pursue Title Contender Status After All-Star Break

The New York Knicks have shown strong offensive performance this season, but their defense remains a concern, especially after the departure of Isaiah Hartenstein. Analysts suggest that the Knicks could improve their defensive strategies, particularly with the anticipated return of Mitchell Robinson from injury, which could bolster their playoff prospects. Despite their current standing as the Eastern Conference's No. 3 seed, the Knicks have struggled against top teams, holding a combined 0-5 record against the Cavaliers, Thunder, and Celtics. The All-Star break offers the team a crucial opportunity to rest and reassess their strategy moving forward. Jalen Brunson emphasized the need for continued improvement as the team aims to solidify its place among the NBA elite. With the potential for more lineup experimentation, including the utilization of both Robinson and Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks hope to address their defensive issues effectively.