Five Takeaways From First Knicks’ Preseason Game
By William Lee
Jul 14, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; New York Knicks guard Jerian Grant (13) dribbles the ball during an NBA Summer League game against the 76ers at Thomas & Mack Center. The Knicks won the game in overtime, 84-81. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
Someone can actually dribble into the paint!
Last season the New York Knicks were god-awful at attacking the rim…making the least amount of field goals within 10 feet of the rim and attempting the second least of any team, as per NBA.com. While early and against non-NBA action, Jerian Grant could be the solution to this problem.
In the first preseason game Grant was fearless and took it to the rim, getting an opportunity for an and-one. At 6’5″ and 204 pounds, Grant can get to the rim with his big body, and post-up smaller guards. Grant posted up a small guard late in the game, which is encouraging to see, even though he missed the attempt.
Grant said he was comfortable running the triangle offense but looked most effective in pick-and-rolls Wednesday night.
"“Yea, I think I am a lot more comfortable than I was” “it’s a lot of movement, that’s really what it is” “at the end of the day, you are just playing basketball” “for me i was really able to pick it up pretty quickly and as a point guard you help teach it to other guys.”"
Speaking of pick-and-roll.
Next: 4th Takeaway: Knicks running pick-and-roll.