Knicks risk dropping in Eastern Conference playoff standings

The New York Knicks are struggling in the NBA Eastern Conference standings. After losing two straight games, they have dropped to the No. 3 seed. They lost 120-105 to the Charlotte Hornets, marking their sixth defeat in nine games. The absence of All-Star point guard Jalen Brunson, who is recovering from an ankle injury, has contributed to their recent struggles. Brunson is out of his walking boot and participating in shooting drills, but he may not be back for at least two weeks. Meanwhile, the Knicks' lead over the teams below them is shrinking quickly. If they continue to lose, the Knicks might actually benefit from falling to the No. 4 or No. 5 seed for the playoffs. Currently, if the playoffs started, New York would face the sixth-seeded Detroit Pistons, which could be a tough matchup. However, they would then likely go against the defending champion Boston Celtics in the second round, a team they have struggled against this season. If they drop to the fourth seed, they potentially get a less challenging route, facing the Cleveland Cavaliers instead. The Knicks have 13 games left in the season. Their remaining schedule is tough, including multiple back-to-back games. Other teams, like the Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks, are also looking to move up in the standings. These late-season games will be crucial as the Knicks aim to avoid Boston and find a better path in the playoffs.