NBA: 4 Teams whose stock is trending upward, 5 whose is falling quickly

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 18: Kevin Durant #35 and Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns during the second half of Game Two of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Footprint Center on April 18, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Clippers 123-109. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 18: Kevin Durant #35 and Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns during the second half of Game Two of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Footprint Center on April 18, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Clippers 123-109. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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New York Knicks
New York Knicks RJ Barrett (David Richard-USA TODAY Sports)

New York Knicks: Trending downward

Taking a big step forward in their progression last season, falling just two wins short of making the Eastern Conference Finals, the hope was that there’d be another step forward this season for the New York Knicks. However, at least through the first two weeks of the season, perhaps that step forward isn’t coming this season after all. At least thus far, the Knicks have the look of a team that may end up taking a step back.

New York has struggled mightily this season on the offensive end of the floor. They have the third-worst offensive rating in the NBA and are one of the worst 3-point shooting teams in the league. That’s not a recipe for success. If there’s any salvaging this season, it’s likely going to start on the defensive end.

The Knicks’ second-ranked defense is the team’s saving grace so far this season. That’s kind of expected for a Tom Thibodeau-led team. Overall, the Knicks’ stock is quickly falling.