Bill Simmons’ nuclear option could instantly clear Knicks’ path to NBA Finals

Jan 25, 2025; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) celebrates during a timeout called by the Sacramento Kings in the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images | Wendell Cruz-Imagn ImagesIt's been over 30 years since the path for the New York Knicks making it to the NBA Finals has been as clear as it is in 2025-26. Already, they rank second in the East standings with a dominant record of 20-8, rank fourth in the always valuable point differential department, and find two conference juggernauts in the Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics crippled by injuries.

However, a new idea proposed by Bill Simmons would make such a…