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Everyone loves to make fun of the New York Knicks. Until they get good again, they will continue to be the NBA's punching bag.
The Knicks lost to the Toronto Raptors in overtime, 123-121, on Monday afternoon. Following the game, former NBA player Kenny Smith shared his thoughts about the team on 'Inside the NBA'. He believes the Knicks are close to being a legitimate contender.
"They're still about a fifth seed, fifth, sixth seed. They're probably another piece away from trying to be an elite team," Smith said.
Shortly after, Charles Barkley started to poke fun at Smith's hot take. Barkley isn't exactly convinced that the Knicks are on the cusp of competing for a title.
"LeBron? The Knicks are are a good, solid team. They play hard and that's it."
"LeBron, Giannis, KD. They're not even close, Kenny... Kareem, Wilt, Magic, Bird."
Despite efforts from Julius Randle and RJ Barrett, the Knicks couldn't overcome a motivated Raptors team desperate for a win. Randle had 21 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists while Barrett recorded 32 points and seven rebounds. The Canadian star also sent Madison Square Garden into a frenzy with a massive dunk over Scottie Barnes to force overtime.
The Knicks are currently sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 25-20 record. They have a good shot at making the playoffs. However, it seems unlikely that they will ever have home court advantage. Players like Barrett need to step up and take on a bigger role on offense.
Also read: LA Lakers Rumors roundup: New York Knicks seeking 2 second-round picks for Cam Reddish, insider explains why LeBron James doesn't care for draft picks, and more
How can the New York Knicks be an effective team in the Eastern Conference?
The expectations for the New York Knicks aren't high this season. After a disappointing 2021-22 campaign, they signed Jalen Brunson to a lucrative deal in the offseason. Simply making the playoffs would be an accomplishment for their young core.
With the trade deadline slowly approaching, the Knicks should look to acquire some veteran players to improve their depth. They also need to make room on their roster to give themselves more financial flexibility.
One player they are hoping to move is Cam Reddish. The former first-round pick has not played since December 4. Reddish has only played 20 games for the Knicks this season. He's averaging 8.4 points, 1.6 rebounds, and one assist while shooting 44.9% from the field and 30.4% from 3-point range.
Also read: Reports: Myles Turner gaining interest from New York Knicks and multiple major teams
Guess the Lakers players!
