The New York Knicks would have advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals if they had finished the previous season completely healthy. Although it’s unlikely that New York would have defeated the Boston Celtics, they may have at least competed better than the Indiana Pacers. However, we’ll never be certain. due to the Knicks’ lack of optimal health, which ultimately caught up to the squad in Game 7 of the conference playoffs.The Knicks’ seasons dragged on without Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, and Jalen Brunson (who fractured his hand in Game 7). It is hoped that by making the risky decision to acquire Mikal Bridges this summer, New York would perform even better this season. Still, there might be one factor preventing the Knicks from starting the season quickly.Ian Begley of the Knicks reports that there’s likely a fair chance the club won’t be fully healthy when training camp starts. Although it’s too soon to say if that will be the case when the regular season starts, it’s definitely something to keep an eye on.Begley thinks Brunson will be prepared for training camp, but there are serious doubts regarding Randle and Robinson’s readiness. Begley even said that if Randle was prepared for the start of training camp, it would be “surprising”. It is hoped that he will be prepared for the season to begin. Robinson “has to clear several hurdles” before he’s cleared for full involvement, and the same might be said about him.New York will probably have to start the season slowly if Randle and Robinson are unable to attend training camp. The team’s cohesiveness will suffer even if they are prepared for the season, which is far from a given. This is especially true given that Randle didn’t play much with OG Anunoby the previous season and that he will also need to become some comfortable playing with Mikal Bridges.The Knicks may face some early challenges at the beginning of the season before they really find their footing, especially considering that New York has virtually no depth beyond Robinson at the centre position.Though we shouldn’t be shocked if they have some difficulties in the early going as they work to get fit, the Knicks are still expected to be among the favourites in the Eastern Conference this season.
Breaking: Shocking reason New York Knicks will likely stumble out of the gate to begin season.
