After the All Star break the Knicks had the third best record and they showed in the playoffs that they were significantly better than the Number 4 Cavs. With turmoil from last season carrying over to the Nets and now the Wizards looking like they will tank, the East should have a few more wins available. Knicks had two surges last season; going to the 9 man rotation and then trading for Josh Hart. Both are repeatable. I think RJs improved shooting in the playoffs shouldn't be overlooked either because it was a result of a change in mechanics rather than just luck.
It's kind of weird that you say "one All- Star caliber player (Brunson)." I get that you don't like Randle but he's made two All Star and two All NBA teams. Whatever your personal gripes, he's clearly an All Star calibre player.