Knicks Face Grueling Schedule After All-Star Break

Tough stretch to test Knicks' playoff readiness

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The New York Knicks will face a challenging 11-game schedule immediately following the NBA All-Star break, including matchups with several top teams in the Eastern Conference. This stretch will provide a crucial test for the Knicks as they prepare for the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Knicks have been one of the surprise teams in the NBA this season, but their ability to maintain their strong play through a difficult post-All-Star stretch will be crucial in determining their playoff positioning and chances of making a deep postseason run.

The details

The Knicks' tough schedule begins with a marquee Thursday night matchup against the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden. Over the next 11 games, the Knicks will face eight teams that are currently in playoff position, including the Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Philadelphia 76ers.

  • The Knicks' post-All-Star schedule begins on Thursday, February 20, 2026.
  • The 11-game gauntlet will run through the first two weeks of March 2026.

The players

Detroit Pistons

The Eastern Conference-leading team that the Knicks will face in their first game back from the All-Star break.

Milwaukee Bucks

One of the top teams in the Eastern Conference that the Knicks will face during their tough post-All-Star stretch.

Boston Celtics

Another Eastern Conference powerhouse that the Knicks will have to contend with in the coming weeks.

Philadelphia 76ers

The Knicks will also face the 76ers, who are currently in playoff position in the Eastern Conference.

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What’s next

The Knicks' performance during this grueling stretch will be closely watched, as it could determine their playoff seeding and overall chances of making a deep postseason run.

The takeaway

The Knicks' ability to navigate a challenging post-All-Star schedule will be a true test of their readiness for the playoffs. If they can maintain their strong play against several top Eastern Conference teams, it will bode well for their chances of making a deep postseason run.