Knicks Clinch No. 3 Seed, Ready for Playoffs

Battle-tested Knicks look to embrace high expectations in postseason run

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:20am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Knicks basketball game, with sharp, overlapping planes of orange, blue, and white representing the dynamic action and energy of the team's playoff push.The Knicks' battle-tested roster and dynamic duo of Brunson and Towns have them primed for a deep playoff run, with the intensity and expectations of Madison Square Garden looming large.NYC Today

The New York Knicks have clinched the No. 3 seed in the NBA playoffs after defeating the Raptors 112-95 on Friday night. Led by the dynamic duo of Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks are battle-tested and eager to embrace the high expectations of their championship-hungry fans as they prepare for the postseason.

Why it matters

The Knicks' strong regular season finish and playoff berth come with heightened pressure and anticipation from the team's passionate fanbase, who have been waiting decades for the team to make a deep playoff run. The team's ability to handle this pressure and intensity will be crucial to their success.

The details

The Knicks secured the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference with their win over the Raptors, capping off a strong regular season campaign. Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns led the way, showcasing the team's "Double Trouble" potential as they look to make noise in the playoffs. The Knicks have already taken down rivals like the Celtics, further proving their battle-tested mettle.

  • The Knicks defeated the Raptors 112-95 on Friday, April 11, 2026 to clinch the No. 3 seed.
  • The Knicks will wrap up the regular season against the Hornets on Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' starting point guard and one half of their dynamic "Double Trouble" duo.

Karl-Anthony Towns

The Knicks' star center and Brunson's co-leader, forming a formidable pairing.

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What’s next

The Knicks will wrap up the regular season against the Hornets on Sunday, April 13, 2026 before turning their attention to the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Knicks have proven themselves to be a battle-tested team ready to embrace the high expectations of their passionate fanbase as they head into the playoffs. Led by the dynamic duo of Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks are poised to make a deep postseason run and end the team's championship drought.