New York Knicks: Who stepped up against the Boston Celtics on Dec. 21?
Doug McDermott
The New York Knicks have been able to trust Doug McDermott for consistent contributions on both ends of the floor. Long pegged as a spot-up shooter, McDermott has evolved into a genuine two-way player and a versatile scorer.
Against the Boston Celtics, McDermott displayed poise under pressure as he helped the Knicks close out their biggest win of the season thus far.
I just watched Doug McDermott play almost 6 straight minutes without touching the ball. Then he made a 3. I don't know how he does that.
— Dirk Chatelain (@dirkchatelain) December 22, 2017
McDermott played 28 minutes against the Celtics—the most of any reserve. He put up eight points and one steal during that time, shooting 2-of-4 from the field, 2-of-2 from three-point range, and 2-of-2 from the free throw line.
McDermott’s biggest shot arrived in the fourth quarter, when he buried a three-point field goal to answer an individual run by clutch maestro Kyrie Irving.
McDermott has become one of head coach Jeff Hornacek’s most reliable players during the 2017-18 regular season. He’s navigating the baseline to perfection when working without the ball, committing to the scheme defensively, and knocking down the three-ball with efficiency.
A pleasant surprise on both ends of the floor, McDermott has made significant progress towards earning a new contract with the Knicks.