New York Knicks: Who replaces Kevin Knox after ankle injury?

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NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 17: Mario Hezonja #8 of the New York Knicks shoots the ball 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) /

3. Mario Hezonja

Mario Hezonja‘s role with the New York Knicks has not received definition through eight total games. That’s with a 20.3 minute average on 42.4 percent shooting and fewer than 20 minutes in all three regular-season matchups, including just 10 against the Celtics.

Limited playing time happened without Knox’s availability, which was a surprise with their unique size and scoring combination. There were shooting struggles for the Croatian forward, though, at 1-for-5 for two points and 1-for-3 against the Brooklyn Nets.

The season opener was a positive for Hezonja, with 15 points in 19 minutes, but it happened when the Knicks already sat a few touchdowns ahead of the Atlanta Hawks.

This doesn’t mean Hezonja isn’t an option for an increase in playing time, but he’s an unlikely option unless there’s another standout performance ahead.

Still, without established many established players to take a main bench role, it places Hezonja near the top of the list. Whether that’s a boost of just a few minutes or past the 20 mark, there’s a chance of an expanded role for however long Knox sits.

A productive stint in the sixth man role can earn Hezonja consistent minutes afterward, especially without anything concrete for this development year. Plus, it would go towards the eventual contract situation in July, since the 23-year-old will hit free agency.

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