Knicks game preview: Rookie follow-up and an early battle for New York

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 1: Noah Vonleh #32 of the New York Knicks is seen against the Washington Wizards during pre-season game on October 1, 2018 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 1: Noah Vonleh #32 of the New York Knicks is seen against the Washington Wizards during pre-season game on October 1, 2018 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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The New York Knicks will battle the Brooklyn Nets in a way-too-early battle for New York City.

The New York Knicks captured a victory in their first preseason game, 124-121, against the Washington Wizards. However, there’s a short turnaround, with a matchup against the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

The opener delivered impressive performances from New York’s rookies, including Kevin Knox’s 13 points and 10 rebounds, Mitchell Robinson’s six points and seven rebounds and Allonzo Trier’s extensive playing time; head coach David Fizdale raved about him at practice.

Focus shifts to the next game, though, especially the starting lineup Fizdale puts on the court. Game 1 saw Knox, Trey Burke, Tim Hardaway Jr., Lance Thomas and Enes Kanter open the evening. Without a concrete group for opening night on Oct. 17, who will the next group be?

Knox did enough to stay, but it would not be a surprise to see him or Thomas make way for Mario Hezonja’s first start. The same for Kanter, potentially the only lock, to give Robinson a bigger test in the frontcourt.

Among them, the most interesting position is point guard. Burke may have started first, but Frank Ntilikina and Emmanuel Mudiay still factor into the equation. Trier’s ball-handling ability should provide an extra opportunity, too, so it’s hardly the Michigan product’s job just yet.

A surprise contributor, Noah Vonleh jumped off the page with his athleticism and energy off the bench. He’s on a partially guaranteed deal for 2018-19, so a roster spot is in question, but more standout performances in the preseason could make it difficult for the staff to cut him.

As for the Nets, their preseason starts with Wednesday’s game. Their offseason saw the arrivals of Kenneth Faried, Dzanan Musa, Ed Davis and Shabazz Napier via free agency, trade or the draft.

Spencer Dinwiddie, D’Angelo Russell and Jarrett Allen all remain the centerpieces of this young team, and in another year together, how will they mesh?

Next. Who stepped up in the preseason opener?. dark

Viewing information for the Knicks vs. Nets are below, including the start time and which networks to watch the game on:

Date: Wednesday, Oct. 3
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Venue: Barclays Center
TV info: MSG, YES Network
Live stream: NBA League Pass

Viewers in the New York area can watch New York vs. Brooklyn on MSG and the YES Network. Everyone else will find a stream on NBA League Pass, which is available for an annual or monthly subscription fee.