New York Knicks What NBA playoff history shows about potential effects of Knicks’ extended layoff By Jared Schwartz Published May 11, 2026, 7:49 p.m. ET Jalen Brunson reacts from the Knicks' bench during their May 4 game against the 76ers. AP Rest does not necessarily mean rust.
Given how quickly the Knicks wrapped up their dominant series sweep of the 76ers in the second round, they will have at least a full week before starting the Eastern Conference finals — the earliest that series will start is Sunday.
With the way the Knicks are playing, fans might not want them to take any break and lose their rhythm.
But history shows that extra time off is usually not a problem.
