4. Enes Kanter
Enes Kanter dropped quiet double-doubles in his three preseason games, including a 20-20 night that was pushed to the background, due to Allonzo Trier’s emergence. It was a similar case Wednesday night.
In 27 minutes, Kanter secured 16 points, 11 rebounds and three assists on 5-for-9 shooting and seven free throw attempts. An efficient night for him which provided an extra thump for the New York Knicks.
Kanter’s defensive work was even notable, with one block and work on the Hawks’ Alex Len and Miles Plumlee. Neither had much on the Turkish center, who looked effective as a two-way player for one night.
The Knicks don’t have to rely on just Kanter, as well, in the frontcourt, due to the emergence of Noah Vonleh and Mitchell Robinson, if he can get healthy from a sprained ankle that was potentially aggravated against Atlanta. Both players are helpful without Kristaps Porzingis and even add depth behind Lance Thomas, who played 16 minutes.
Kanter has an intriguing matchup against Jarrett Allen and the Brooklyn Nets Friday night. It’s a bigger challenge, but after four impressive performances this month, it should be another double-double night.