Rick Pitino Declares Knicks the Best Team in NBA Playoffs
Former New York Knicks coach Rick Pitino has declared the Knicks the best team in the current NBA playoffs, despite the presence of defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder. Speaking to the New York Post, the St. John’s head coach praised the Knicks' depth, talent, and improved offensive ball and player movement, noting significant progress since January. The Knicks advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals after sweeping the Philadelphia 76ers, boasting a seven-game playoff winning streak and a +194 point differential. They are set to face either the Detroit Pistons or Cleveland Cavaliers, with home-court advantage implications varying by opponent. While ESPN analyst Jay Williams agreed the Knicks look like championship contenders, colleague Brian Windhorst urged caution, highlighting Oklahoma City's undefeated 8-0 playoff record and advising fans to focus on the immediate conference finals challenge. The article also notes that key player OG Anunoby is expected to return from a hamstring injury for the next round, further bolstering the team's prospects as they aim to end their championship drought dating back to 1973.
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