Knicks game preview: ‘Are the Nets better?’ part one and how to watch

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 17: Frank Ntilikina #11 and Allonzo Trier #14 of the New York Knicks exchange high fives against the Atlanta Hawks during the game on October 17, 2018 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, 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)
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 17: Frank Ntilikina #11 and Allonzo Trier #14 of the New York Knicks exchange high fives against the Atlanta Hawks during the game on October 17, 2018 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, 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) /
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The New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets will already clash for the third time, but in a meaningful matchup. A preview and how to watch the action.

These teams already battled twice in the preseason, but the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets will clash once again. Unlike those, Friday night’s matchup will count towards the official record. It takes place at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

It was a positive night Wednesday for the Knicks, with a 126-107 route of the Atlanta Hawks that featured a 49-point second quarter. Led by Tim Hardaway Jr.’s 31 points, it became a smooth night for head coach David Fizdale’s debut at both ends of the court.

Productive nights were delivered by Mario Hezonja and Allonzo Trier, as well, as both crossed double-digit points in bench roles and added to the offensive outburst.

Injury-wise, Mitchell Robinson appeared to injure his ankle just one minute into the game. According to Steve Popper of Newsday, the rookie center was available to return, so he should be available in Brooklyn, barring a change before the start time.

For the starting lineup, look for the same group of Hardaway Jr., Trey Burke, Frank Ntilikina, Lance Thomas and Enes Kanter. This group has not been confirmed, but after the opener’s performance, it would be a surprise to see changes.

As for the Nets, they opened 2018-19 with a 103-100 loss to the Detroit Pistons. Though, it was highlighted by 27 points from Caris LeVert, 23 points from Spencer Dinwiddie and 17 points and 10 rebounds from Jarrett Allen.

Will there be any attention on Dinwiddie? Aside from on-court play, he said the Nets are “better” than the Knicks. It doesn’t have the eye of Fizdale, who knows no one will take it personally, according to Marc Berman of The New York Post:

"“I don’t get into that stuff,” Fizdale said after Thursday’s practice. “I’ll let these guys banter back and forth if they want to. It’s good old jawing. No one’s going to take it personal. These guys see each other all year, play pickup in the summer together."

Dinwiddie’s comments happened before the preseason finale, and there was no apparent tension between the teams. Given the Knicks’ non-stance on this, it’s probably just words to create a swirl and nothing more.

Next. Who stepped up on opening night?. dark

Information on how to watch the Knicks and Nets are below, including the start time and the television details:

Date: Friday, Oct. 19
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Venue: Barclays Center
TV info: MSG, YES Network
Live stream: NBA League Pass

MSG and the YES Network will host this early battle of New York. NBA League Pass has a live stream available but via subscription. Price packages vary.

The Knicks will eye a 2-0 start to Fizdale’s tenure. Can they follow through with another strong two-way night?