As the NBA playoffs heat up, the New York Knicks find themselves in an interesting position. Despite being the second seed in the East and boasting a solid net rating during the regular season, the Knicks are not considered top contenders for the championship according to oddsmakers.

With their odds to win the NBA championship currently sitting at +3000 at FanDuel Sportsbook, the Knicks are ranked 10th behind teams like the Lakers, Suns, and Bucks. However, this underdog status could present a valuable opportunity for savvy bettors looking to capitalize on a potential upset.

Heading into their first-round matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, the Knicks have a chance to prove their doubters wrong. The 76ers, led by Joel Embiid, are facing uncertainties due to injuries, giving the Knicks a potential advantage in the series.

Additionally, other top teams in the East, such as the Milwaukee Bucks with Giannis Antetokounmpo nursing a calf strain, are also dealing with key player health issues. This landscape sets the stage for unexpected outcomes and opens the door for teams like the Knicks to make a surprising playoff run.

While the odds may not be in their favor, the Knicks’ resilience and strong regular-season performance suggest that they should not be underestimated. As the playoffs unfold, basketball fans and bettors alike will be watching closely to see if the Knicks can defy the odds and make a deep postseason push.