Knicks Face Tough Second-Half Schedule as NBA Season Resumes

Knicks to take on Eastern Conference-leading Pistons in first game back from All-Star break

Feb. 16, 2026 at 5:07pm

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The NBA's regular season schedule resumes on Thursday with a matchup between the New York Knicks and the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden. This game marks the start of a grueling 10-game stretch for the Knicks, who will face eight projected playoff teams including several of the league's top title contenders. The Knicks' performance in this stretch could provide a better picture of their prospects for the spring playoffs, as they have had an up-and-down season so far.

Why it matters

The Knicks are currently in third place in the Eastern Conference, just one game ahead of the Cavaliers and a half-game behind the Celtics. How they fare against the league's elite teams in this upcoming stretch could determine their playoff seeding and home-court advantage. Additionally, the Knicks have struggled against lower-seeded teams in recent postseasons, so this challenging schedule may reveal more about their true championship aspirations.

The details

The Knicks will face a daunting schedule in the second half of the season, including matchups with the Pistons, Oklahoma City, Denver, San Antonio, Houston, Cleveland, and Boston. This stretch will be a true test for the Knicks, who have had an up-and-down season so far, going 16-14 against teams over .500 and just 13-13 on the road.

  • The NBA's regular season schedule resumes on Thursday, February 16, 2026.
  • The Knicks will host the Eastern Conference-leading Pistons in their first game back from the All-Star break.

The players

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' starting point guard who has led the team to three straight postseason appearances, despite being the lower-seeded team in each of those years.

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What’s next

The Knicks' performance in this upcoming 10-game stretch against top playoff contenders will be closely watched, as it could provide a better indication of their true championship aspirations this season.

The takeaway

The Knicks face a daunting second-half schedule that will test their mettle as a top contender in the Eastern Conference. How they fare against the league's elite teams could determine their playoff seeding and home-court advantage, as well as reveal more about their ability to make a deep postseason run.