New York Knicks: It Was Only The Preseason Opener
Derrick Rose & Kristaps Porzingis
The New York Knicks know what to expect from Carmelo Anthony. He’s never once averaged less than 20 points per game, and with 13 seasons and a 2016 Olympic gold medal under his belt, that makes it a safe bet that he’ll again exceed said mark in 2016-17.
That’s exactly why the preseason opener was more encouraging than discouraging: his primary sources of offensive aid were exceptional.
.@kporzee has caught fire in the 3Q & now has 22 points (8-11 FG / 5-6 3-PT). #NYKvsHOU pic.twitter.com/1ZaP4CNeyg
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) October 5, 2016
Kristaps Porzingis led the scoring charge with 22 points, four rebounds, two blocks, and a steal in 27 minutes. He shot 8-of-11 from the field, went 5-of-6 from beyond the arc, and made his only free throw attempt.
That includes the downright filthy move he put on Clint Capela, when he hit him with a pair of pump fakes, a crossover dribble, and a step-back into a perfect jumper.
There’s no defending that.
For as brilliant as Porzingis was, easily the most encouraging sign for the Knicks was how explosive Derrick Rose looked. He wasn’t dunking on players, but his end-to-end speed and agility in the half court were as awe-inspiring as they’ve ever been.
Rose finished with 16 points, five assists, two rebounds, and one block on 7-of-14 shooting in 25 impressive minutes.
The #Knicks found some offensive rhythm in the 3rd quarter. Check out the highlights. #NYKvsHOU pic.twitter.com/SZ7KPMjnkB
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) October 5, 2016
If Porzingis and Rose weren’t flukes—and history says they weren’t—then Anthony’s resurgence and Joakim Noah’s return should make everything right in New York.
That’s as safe a bet as you’ll find in New York City.
Must Read: Five positive takeaways from the preseason opener
Fear not, Knicks fans; the preseason opener was just one meaningless game.