New York Knicks eliminated from playoff contention

Oct 22, 2012; Syracuse, NY, USA; New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony (7) talks with New York Knicks head coach Mike Woodson during the third quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

It looked like the New York Knicks finally broke through in 2013.

After finally returning to the postseason in 2012, they defeated the Boston Celtics in a first round playoff series in 2013 before being eliminated by the Indiana Pacers a round later.

The Knicks will not be going back to the postseason for a third straight year.

When the Atlanta Hawks defeated the Miami Heat 98-85 on Saturday night, the Hawks improved to 37-43, making it impossible for the 34-45 Knicks to catch them because the Hawks hold the tie-breaker between the two teams.

In some ways, missing the postseason could be good for teams that were going to be a quick out in the playoffs because of the NBA Draft.

The Knicks, however, have to send their pick to the Denver Nuggets because of the Carmelo Anthony trade.

The Nuggets, who are also missing the playoffs, will have to send the worst of their two lottery picks to the Orlando Magic from the Dwight Howard deal, in which they netted Andre Iguodala, giving the Magic two lottery picks.

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