New York Knicks Stay Undefeated in Summer League

76. 27. 66. 20. Final

The New York Knicks defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in their second game of the NBA Summer League, raising their record to an impressive 2-0. While most eyes were on first round draftees Kristaps Porzingis and Jerian Grant, it was an all around team effort that helped push Derek Fishers’ men to victory.

The first half began at a frantic pace, with both sides trading multiple missed 3 pointers. Maurice Ndour started the game in fine fettle, displaying crucial defensive energy and connecting on a few midrange jumpers. Jerian Grant also managed to make his mark, pushing the ball forward at every opportunity and effortlessly linking up the Knicks offense.

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4th overall pick Kristpas Porzingis, who seemed unfazed by the impending task of going head to head with Julius Randle, continuously attacked the basket right off the bat. His depository of post moves and ability to get to the line helped carry the Knicks through the first half, culminating in a particularly impressive play in which he drove in from the corner and banked in an off balance shot, drawing a foul in the process.

While the two rookies excelled in the first half, the impact of bench players such as Thanasis Antetokounmpo and Alex Kirk cannot be understated. Their defensive tenacity and willingness to partake in the dirty work was crucial to the Knicks entering halftime with a 5 point lead.

Jul 13, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; New York Knicks forward Alex Kirk (53) shoots the ball during an NBA Summer League game against the Lakers at Thomas & Mack Center. The Knicks won 76-66. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

The Lakers rushed out the gates at the game’s restart, with Jeremy Clarkson finally nailing a 3 pointer after multiple first half attempts. The Knicks regained their footing however, lead by Porzingis’ and Grant’s offensive contributions. Grant seemed to strike up a particularly potent partnership with Cleanthony Early, routinely feeding the sophomore guard with defense splitting passes and pin point alley-oops.

By the time the 4th quarter rolled around, the game seemed to have lost most of its urgency. Both sides started out fielding mainly backup lineups, and the Knicks jumped to a commanding double digit advantage. However the Lakers weren’t done yet. Fueled by Clarkson and Jabari Brown, Los Angeles managed to cut the lead to 4 after an ill advised goal tend by Ndour. In the end though, The Knicks succeeded in staving off the assault. Cleathony Early and Langston Galloway iced the game with their clutch free throw shooting, ending the contest at 76-66 in New York’s favor.

Overall, a lot of positives can be brought from this game. Kristaps Porzingis impressed again, displaying a polished offensive arsenal and a surprising adeptness on the defensive end of the court. All in all, the Latvian tallied 9 points, 3 rebounds and 1 block. He still needs to drastically bulk up of course, yet his dexterity and length have given onlookers hope that he may be able to contribute to this Knicks side sooner than expected.