New York Knicks: Who stepped up in the second preseason game?

2 of 3

BROOKLYN, NY – OCTOBER 3: Enes Kanter #00 of the New York Knicks handles the ball against the Brooklyn Nets during a pre-season game on October 3, 2018 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. 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 Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Enes Kanter

For a soon-to-be-mentioned reason, Enes Kanter’s double-double went down quietly. Not just that, but it was 22 points and 20 rebounds in 27 minutes. He did this twice in 2017-18 but in fewer minutes (35 and 30, respectively) both games.

Kanter patrolled the paint throughout the game, grabbing almost any rebound that came his way, even if it was only tipped. Granted, it came against a small Nets frontcourt aside from Jarrett Allen, but impressive nonetheless.

If there was ever doubt, Kanter’s performance continued to push him towards the starting center spot for the second consecutive season. No competition existed, anyway, despite Mitchell Robinson’s flashes of upside in two games.

Interestingly, Kanter has followed through on New York Knicks head coach David Fizdale’s desire for more three-pointers. It resulted in an 0-2 mark against the Nets, but still a sign of action over talk and an aspect of the big man’s game that should arrive throughout the 2018-19 season.

As New York’s potentially-entrenched starter at center, expect for more nights like this across the 82 game schedule or at least a double-double, something Kanter achieved 39 times last season. It all improves his value before the 2019 offseason, when he hits free agency.

Kanter was overshadowed by one player, however, with something to prove as a rookie.

Home/Knicks News