Knicks’ season hinges on first-round success: breakthrough or failure?

Knicks’ season hinges on first-round success: breakthrough or failure? originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

For the New York Knicks, the 2025-26 season will ultimately be judged by one question: can they win a first-round playoff series?

After building one of the most competitive rosters in the Eastern Conference, expectations in New York have shifted. This is no longer a team simply fighting to make the postseason — it’s one expected to advance. Anything less could be viewed as a step backward.

Led by All-Star guard Jalen Brunson, the Knicks have established a clear identity built on toughness, defensive intensity, and efficient half-court offense. Brunson’s leadership and scoring ability have been central to their rise, particularly in high-pressure moments. Around him, a deep and physical roster has allowed New York to compete with some of the conference’s top contenders.

However, regular-season success only goes so far in a city like New York.

The Knicks have reached this point before  a solid team with promise but without a defining playoff breakthrough to validate their progress. Winning a first-round series would signal that the franchise is ready to take the next step toward true contention. It would reinforce the belief that their current core is capable of competing deep into the postseason.

Another early exit would leave Knicks facing major questions about roster and direction

On the other hand, another early exit would raise difficult questions. Is the roster good enough as constructed? Does the team need another star to complement Brunson? Can their physical style translate consistently against elite playoff competition?