Knicks championship credentials to be tested with grueling 10-game stretch to start the season

The New York Knicks have positioned themselves as a genuine contender in the Eastern Conference. The addition of Mikal Bridges built on the trade for OG Anunoby last season and has provided Tom Thibodeau with the type of defensive versatility he craves.

However, once the new season begins, New York's credentials as a genuine contender will immediately be tested. Thibodeau's roster will face seven playoff-level teams in its first 10 games. The schedule looks like this:

• at Boston Celtics, Oct. 22
• vs. Indiana Pacers, Oct. 25
• vs. Cleveland Cavaliers, Oct. 28
• at Miami Heat, Oct. 30
• at Detroit Pistons, Nov. 1
• at Houston Rockets, Nov. 4
• at Atlanta Hawks, Nov. 6
• vs. Milwaukee Bucks, Nov. 8
• at Indiana Pacers, Nov. 10
• at Philadelphia 76ers, Nov. 12

New York's opening three games come against teams that made it to at least the Eastern Conference semifinals, including a season opener against the reigning NBA champions. The Knicks' schedule is made even more difficult when considering that Julius Randle will be returning from surgery, as will OG Anunoby and Mitchell Robinson.

Having three players working their way back to fitness with such a difficult run of games is far from ideal. The Knicks must avoid an early losing streak, as that could decimate any chance of building momentum and fostering a united locker room.

After going all-in by trading for Bridges, the Knicks must prove that they're capable of contending at the highest level. While early-season success can't predict how things will play out throughout an 82-game season, it can help build a runway to a deep playoff run.

Thibodeau must help his team navigate a difficult start to the season. If he can do that, the Knicks should be in good shape later in the year.