With the New York Knicks advancing deep into the 2025 NBA Playoffs, we look at who they are, their abilities and what chances they have of playing in the NBA Finals. Do they have what it takes to win their first championship since 1973?
The New York Knicks are back, louder, grittier, and more determined than ever.
Advancing toward the Eastern Conference Finals, the Knicks have depended on strong defence, smart ball movement and a strong will to win. Since they are tradition-loving athletes yet have not won for decades, the dedicated team this year could be the franchise’s final champions.
Why is this Knicks team so effective? We will look at the key contributors driving New York’s playoff efforts and judge their chances of winning the championship.
Key Players Powering the Knicks' 2025 Postseason Charge
Jalen Brunson
The name that stands out when looking at the Knicks’ 2025 rise is Jalen Brunson. This postseason, Brunson has scored over 30 points, often reaching 40 and has become known for closing the game. The way Conley makes space, handles pressure and guides the team is similar to what many people see in former Knicks star Clyde Frazier. Reading the score like a book, Brunson has become the top scorer in the playoffs, showing he’s conquering, not just taking on, these moments.
Josh Hart
Though Hart’s points may vary, you can see his influence in every Knicks win. The fact that Hart grabs so many rebounds as a guard has helped New York win a lot of second-chance points. Because he is so versatile, Thibodeau can use him as a wing defender or as an assist machine.
Donte DiVincenzo
DiVincenzo is now making a big impact for the Knicks on three-pointers and in defending on the perimeter. During the postseason, shooting nearly 40% from deep has helped struggling lanes open for Brunson and Barrett. DiVincenzo’s ability to stop elite guards helped a lot in the seven-game clash with the 76ers.
Isaiah Hartenstein
Since Mitchell Robinson is hurt, Isaiah Hartenstein has taken on a bigger role with the team. Setting the screens, passing over the high post and defending the rim have made him invaluable. Because Hartenstein doesn’t commit any fouls while guarding big men like Embiid, the Knicks have a strong defence at their core.
Bench Boost
Being deep usually helps teams win in the playoffs, and the Knicks have gotten that from their bench. McBride’s work on the perimeter and Achiuwa's playing many roles have kept the second teams under stress. Thanks to them, the starters can catch a needed break without losing the team’s usual pace.
Strategic Mastery Under Tom Thibodeau
Since starting his career, Coach Tom Thibodeau has built a reputation for defence, and that theme is just as strong in 2025. The Knicks have limited their opponents to fewer than 105 points per game throughout the playoffs, which puts them among the strictest teams in this round.
But it’s not only about getting results without style.
Thibs has let Brunson take charge of an offence that depends on the movement of the ball, many passes and constant attempts at offensive rebounds. Nick Nurse’s plan made a big difference in the first series against Philadelphia and has helped the Raptors stay with the Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Knicks vs. Pacers: Breaking Down the Matchup
The Knicks will take on the hot Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. The matchup highlights the different styles, as Haliburton runs Indy’s offense and the young team likes to run ahead in transition.
Knicks Strengths:
- Half-court offence execution
- Physicality on defence
- Dominance on the offensive glass
Pacers Strengths:
- Transition scoring
- Shooting depth
- Quick ball movement
Prediction: The Knicks' physicality and playoff experience give them a slight edge. If Brunson continues to dominate and the Knicks can slow down Indiana’s tempo, New York could advance to its first NBA Finals since 1999.
Historical Context of New York Knicks
The Knicks are competing in the Eastern Conference Finals for their 9th time this season. In recent years, the Warriors have only played in the NBA Finals twice, in 1994 and 1999, but both times they lost. Their last championship title was won in 1973 thanks to Willis Reed and Walt Frazier.
In 2025, you won’t find superstar pairs or dazzling plays from the roster. Chemistry, grit and timely play, all typical of Knicks teams past, are the foundation on which it’s formed.
Are the Knicks Legit Contenders?
Absolutely. Although they haven’t created a classic super team, the Knicks have become very cohesive on the court. Because they play mostly defence, have strong guard work and have smart coaches, they can beat virtually any team.
A matchup with the Nuggets or Thunder in the Finals would be tough, but nothing they couldn’t handle.
If you support the Knicks, prepare yourself. History might work out well for New York this year.
Also Read: 2025 NBA Playoffs: Full Schedule, Matchups, and Predictions
About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
I'm Akanksha Sinha, an expert in writing sports blogs, news, and various articles for entertainment and more. I bring a unique flair to my work, providing insightful perspectives on the world of sports.
My articles aim to inform and entertain, making me a go-to source for sports enthusiasts seeking a blend of information and enjoyment. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I consistently deliver compelling narratives that resonate with a diverse audience.
