Knicks Playoff Seeding Scenarios

The Knicks, currently third in the Eastern Conference, are aiming for their 45th playoff appearance in franchise history. Their last playoff appearance was in 2025, when they lost in the Eastern Conference Finals. A favorable scenario for the Knicks would be a first-round matchup against the Toronto Raptors, a team they have dominated, winning 12 straight games against them. A less desirable, but possible, second-round opponent could be the Detroit Pistons, who swept the Knicks in their regular season series. The top six teams in each conference secure a guaranteed playoff spot, while seeds 7-10 participate in a play-in tournament to determine the final two seeds. Tiebreakers for seeding are determined by head-to-head record, division record, and conference record, among other criteria. The NBA playoffs follow a traditional bracket format, with each series being a best-of-seven. The higher-seeded team gets home-court advantage, hosting Games 1, 2, 5, and 7. The Knicks have played their home games at Madison Square Garden since 1968. Looking back, the Knicks have reached the NBA Finals eight times, winning two championships in 1970 and 1973. From 1988 to 2001, they made the playoffs for 14 consecutive seasons. Potential opponents in the later rounds include the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Philadelphia 76ers. A major concern for the Knicks would be dropping to the fifth seed and losing home-court advantage against a tough opponent. The Eastern Conference standings as of March 5, 2026, show the Detroit Pistons in first place, followed by the Boston Celtics and then the Knicks. The Knicks have a 100% chance of making the playoffs, according to ESPN's model. The 2026 NBA playoffs are scheduled to begin on April 18, with the NBA Finals starting in June. The Knicks will rely on their defense, experienced core, and home-court advantage for a deep playoff run.