Knicks Playoff Schedule Released As Team Eyes Deep Run
Knicks Playoff Schedule Released As Team Eyes Deep Run...
The New York Knicks' 2026 playoff schedule has been finalized, sparking excitement among fans as the team prepares for its first-round matchup. The NBA announced the full slate of games late Tuesday, with the Knicks set to open their postseason campaign at Madison Square Garden this weekend.
New York secured the Eastern Conference's No. 4 seed after finishing the regular season with a 48-34 record. They'll face the fifth-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers in a best-of-seven series beginning Sunday, April 17 at 3:30 PM ET. The full schedule includes potential games through April 30 if the series goes the distance.
This marks the Knicks' third consecutive playoff appearance under head coach Tom Thibodeau, who has revitalized the franchise since taking over in 2020. Star point guard Jalen Brunson, averaging 24.7 points per game this season, will lead a roster that added key pieces at the trade deadline.
The schedule release comes as ticket prices for Knicks home games have surged on secondary markets, with some courtside seats exceeding $5,000. Local businesses around MSG are preparing for increased foot traffic, with bars and restaurants extending hours for playoff viewing parties.
New York last advanced past the first round in 2023, when they reached the Eastern Conference Finals. This year's matchup against Cleveland presents a tough but winnable series, with the teams splitting their four regular-season meetings.
The complete first-round schedule for Knicks-Cavaliers:
- Game 1: Sunday, April 17 - 3:30 PM ET (MSG)
- Game 2: Wednesday, April 20 - 7:00 PM ET (TNT)
- Game 3: Friday, April 22 - 7:00 PM ET (ESPN)
- Game 4: Sunday, April 24 - 1:00 PM ET (ABC)
- Game 5*: Wednesday, April 27 - TBD
- Game 6*: Friday, April 29 - TBD
- Game 7*: Sunday, May 1 - TBD
(*If necessary)
With the Rangers also in NHL playoff contention, New York sports fans face a busy April. The last time both teams made simultaneous postseason runs was 2015. MSG Network will broadcast all Knicks playoff games locally, with national coverage split between ESPN, ABC and TNT.
