Knicks’ First Preseason Games Have 3 Clear Winners
· Yahoo Sports
The New York Knicks are back on the court, and with opening night less than two weeks away, the preseason is already giving fans a few reasons to feel good about what’s ahead.
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Knicks’ First Preseason Games Have 3 Clear Winners That Stand OutThe Knicks are 0-2, but that isn’t exactly cause for concern. Exhibition games are more about seeing how players look, how they’re settling in, and which parts of the roster are already showing promise.
After the first couple of games, three winners stand out. Jalen Brunson has looked comfortable following his offseason wrist surgery, Andre Drummond has made a positive early impression, and Knicks fans have lots to be excited about as the team works toward another run at the NBA Finals.
1. Jalen Brunson, the Heart of New York
Brunson’s offseason wrist surgery was something Knicks fans understandably wanted to keep an eye on, but his first preseason appearances have offered lots of encouragement. The captain has looked comfortable controlling the offense, taking shots and playing with the confidence that has made him such a reliable presence for New York.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) shoots past Philadelphia 76ers guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (1) during the second quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Photo Credit: Bill Streicher, Imagn Images via Reuters ConnectHis three-point shooting wasn’t at its best against the Washington Wizards, as he went 1-for-6. Still, there’s more to Brunson’s game than whether his outside shots are falling on a particular night. He’s continued to attack the basket for layups and pull up from three when the chance is there.
The encouraging part is how natural it all looks. Brunson hasn’t appeared hesitant or as if he’s still trying to find his footing after surgery. Instead, he’s already playing with a rhythm that should give Knicks fans confidence as the regular season approaches.
He’s also putting in the work defensively. Brunson has shown good effort on that end of the floor and has already drawn multiple charges during the preseason. That’s another positive sign for a player who will once again be central to New York’s hopes this season.
2. Andre Drummond Is Making a Solid Impression in His Knicks First Preseason
Drummond’s arrival in New York this summer prompted a mixed reaction from Knicks fans. His first preseason appearances, however, have offered reasons to be hopeful.
One of the biggest questions surrounding Drummond was how he’d handle defending the pick-and-roll. So far, that part of his game has looked solid. He’s been active with his hands and has shown encouraging defensive instincts in those situations, which is a welcome development for the Knicks.
Drummond’s finishing around the basket remains something to watch, but his rebounding has been exactly what fans would expect from a player known for his work on the boards. Combined with the surprisingly encouraging defense, that strength has made his early performances a positive development.
3. Knicks Fans Have Lots to Look Forward To
The fans deserve a spot on this list, too. New York has a team that believes it can make another run to the NBA Finals, and the first couple of preseason games have offered enough encouraging signs to keep that excitement going.
The 0-2 start isn’t the story here. Brunson looks comfortable after his wrist surgery, Drummond has shown that he can contribute in important areas, and the team still has time to get ready before the games begin to count.
With opening night less than two weeks away, Knicks fans are getting close to seeing this team in games that finally count. The preseason hasn’t started with a couple of wins, but there have been some good signs worth paying attention to.
Brunson looks comfy, Drummond has made a decent early impression, and there’s still time for the group to get on the same page. Two losses don’t tell the whole story, and it’s just the preseason, so fans have every reason to be excited about what this team could do once the season gets underway.
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Photo Credit: Alexander Wohl, Imagn Images via Reuters Connect