New York Knicks: Who stood out during preseason opener?

Doug McDermott

If there’s a competition for the starting job at small forward, then Doug McDermott is the frontrunner after the first game. He spaced the floor, threw down a ferocious dunk, and looked the part of a positive influence on Jeff Hornacek’s system throughout his time on the court.

McDermott’s minutes were expectedly limited by the fact that it was a preseason game, but he gave fans reason for intrigue and optimism.

McDermott played 17 minutes against the Nets, recording nine points and an assist during his first game with the Knicks. He shot 3-of-5 from the field, 1-of-2 from three-point range, and 2-of-2 from the free throw line.

It was a balanced scoring display from McDermott, who proved to be far more athletic than many expected him to be given his track record as a spot-up shooter and post player.

McDermott seems to fit the mold of what head coach Jeff Hornacek is attempting to do with a modernized offense. He’s one of the better shooters in the NBA, and is a good enough athlete to consistently get up and down the floor in New York’s up-tempo style.

There are still two weeks remaining until the starting lineups are announced, but McDermott has an early leg up on the competition.