"Playoffs! Playoffs?"
The famous reaction of
former Colts head coach Jim Mora had to have been similar to the reaction of
Knicks fans after the team started the season 3-14.
Many critics had low expectations for the Knicks this
season, and saw the team using the season to prepare for a run at LeBron James
in free agency.
However, with strong play the rest of the way, the Knicks have a golden
opportunity to make the playoffs for the first time in six years.
The Knicks have gone 14-12 following their disappointing
start. The team sits four games behind the Bobcats for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. If the Knicks want to
make the playoffs, the time is now to make their move in the standings.
Performing well in the next five games is critical to the
Knicks' playoff chances. The team faces
the Wizards twice, the Timberwolves, Bucks and Raptors. The combined record of
those four teams is 66-115.
Strong play may impact Knicks management as well. The team
reportedly has expressed interest in Tracy McGrady and Tyrus Thomas.
If the team performs well over the next week, who knows what they will do prior
to the Feb. 18 trade deadline?
Last season, the Pistons captured the final playoff spot in
the Eastern Conference with 39 wins. If the Knicks play well the rest of the
way, they should have no trouble reaching that number.
