New York Knicks: Who stepped up in the preseason opener?

1. Allonzo Trier

Allonzo Trier joined the New York Knicks on a two-way contract, but at practice, Fizdale seemed impressed with the Arizona product’s work, according to Marc Berman of The New York Post.

"“I don’t want to put a cap on him,’’ Fizdale said of the 22-year-old Trier. “The LeBron block. You just don’t see that that often that a guy can run somebody down and meet him at the apex and block it. That’s a real gift right there. I don’t want to say G-League with him or he’s up with us. I just want to see what happens with him because he’s a talented kid.”"

Well, the staff did indeed like what they saw, as Trier played 21 minutes in his Knicks debut and scored 13 on 3-for-7 shooting. It was not the gaudy numbers Knox put up or at the level of attention Robinson received, but perhaps the night’s biggest surprise.

Trier often worked with the ball in his hands, displaying the handles to attack Washington’s defense, even if just on fringe roster players. This flashy move against Devon Robinson was the highlight of them all:

So Fizdale’s praise for Trier played onto the court, and not all of his performance happened against the bottom of the Wizards roster. However, what will it mean for the rest of the preseason?

Trier possibly played himself into a larger role, as the coaching staff receives a longer look at the undrafted free agent. Whether it’s a start or as among the first players off the bench, it would not surprise to see him on the court more.

Eventually, the Knicks will decide if Trier did enough to make the roster and not stick to the two-way deal. One game won’t finalize the situation, so across the next four matchups, it’s time to shine for that first meaningful NBA opportunity.