New York Knicks: Who Stepped Up Against The Portland Trail Blazers?
Brandon Jennings
Brandon Jennings is the perfect example of why one must look beyond the box score and watch the actual games. He doesn’t always look great statistically, but his energy, aggressiveness, and leadership have been instrumental in the New York Knicks’ turnaround.
Against the Portland Trail Blazers, Jennings took over in the first half both as a playmaker and as an agitating force on the defensive end of the floor.
Brandon Jennings: "KP is 7'3. He can go for 30 every night. I told him before the game I wanna see 30 points tonight. He said, 'Alright.'"
— Tommy Beer (@TommyBeer) November 23, 2016
In 22 minutes, Jennings finished with four points, 11 assists, three rebounds, two steals, and a technical foul that was easy to forgive. He brought Madison Square Garden to its feet and sent a message to Portland: this won’t be a fun trip to New York City.
To round out his statistics, Jennings shot 2-of-6 from the field and recorded a telling +/- of +11 in a four-point win.
Jennings provides an invaluable energy to the Knicks on both ends of the floor. He pressures the ball, gambles in the passing lanes, defends inbound passes, and threads the needle with beautiful passes to create offense for others.
The numbers may not always be in Jennings’ favor, but what he brings to the table is bigger than statistics. He’s the heart and soul of this team right now.