So, where does this leave the Knicks' chances at getting a top pick, something near the end of the lottery or a selection in between?

Per Tankathon.com, as of today, New York holds the 10th-worst record in the NBA, giving them just under a 14 percent chance at a top-four pick and a three percent chance at first overall. These odds move with every shift in the standings, so these remaining contests are crucial.

If the Knicks continue this recent hot streak, having won three-of-four against tough competition despite injuries across the board, they could play themselves out of prime lottery real estate. The teams behind New York in the lotto are the Los Angeles Lakers and Washington Wizards, 1.5 and two games ahead in the standings. Both should remain competitive through the last bit of play, but should they slip behind the Knicks, Leon Rose will be looking at a 7.1 percent and 1.5 percent chance at a top-four or number one overall pick.

The last two teams in the play-in tournament also get some odds, but the Knicks trail them by 4.5 games. They would be exchanging a shot at consecutive postseason berths for any shot at a franchise-altering lottery draw.

On the other end of the spectrum, New York can boost its odds by catching up to the New Orleans Pelicans, San Antonio Spurs and Portland Trailblazers. All three are fighting for a single play-in spot and are within two games of the Knicks record-wise. A skid could theoretically propel New York to the seventh-worst finish, assuring a one-third chance at a top-four pick and 7.5 percent odds at number one.

Beyond that, it would take a complete shutdown of the Knicks roster and other teams hitting mean hot streaks. The Sacramento Kings made a splash at the trade deadline when they acquired Domantas Sabonis, but it hasn’t produced the tear they hoped for yet. With New York 4.5 games out of the sixth-worst record, expecting them to make up this ground would be tough.

As it stands, the Knicks find themselves in a bit of a purgatory with few games remaining. They didn’t play well enough to compete as expected, and haven’t completely fallen off the cliff where a 19-year-old is ready to save the franchise.

There isn’t much they can do now. A strong streak into the play-in tournament or descent into top pick territory seem equally unrealistic. Fans will have to enjoy what they can of RJ Barrett’s emergence and Miles McBride’s tryout minutes to make the most of this season, as it won’t be saved by the ping pong balls.

Popular in the Community

More from sny