How close are the Knicks to contending?

Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty ImagesThe vibes right now on the New York Knicks are immaculate. Since his arrival, newly acquired Josh Hart has brought the intangibles and glue behind a five-game win streak. In addition, head Coach Tom Thibodeau has been evolving with the team's personnel, making better adjustments to end games, allowing the bench to finish runs, and keeping the ball moving in the second half.

The Knicks are balanced with two All-Star-level talents in Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson, who could have a case made for co-MVPs. RJ Barrett is finally finding his ground as a secondary playmaker and tertiary scorer. Mitchel Robinson is anchoring our defense along with second-year…