Overview

• The New York Knicks clinched the Eastern Conference's No. 3 seed despite losing to the Cleveland Cavaliers, 108-102, after squandering a 23-point lead.
• The team has struggled against top-tier opponents throughout the season, finishing 0-10 against Cleveland, Boston, and Oklahoma City, the league's three 60-win teams.
• Coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized the need for immediate improvements, citing issues with maintaining focus and execution for a full 48 minutes.
• The Knicks are set to face the sixth-seeded Detroit Pistons in the first round of the playoffs, a team that defeated New York three times during the regular season.
• Players and coaches remain optimistic about the playoffs offering a clean slate, with Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart stressing the importance of preparation and urgency moving forward.