New York Knicks: Who stepped up in streak-snapping win vs. Nets?

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NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 29: Tim Hardaway Jr. #3 of the New York Knicks handles the ball against the Brooklyn Nets on October 29, 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) /

2. Tim Hardaway Jr.

After seven games, it’s hardly a surprise to find Tim Hardaway Jr. under the New York Knicks that stepped up in a win. He continues to lead the way in points, field goals, and attempts, and even did the same in assists against the Nets.

Hardaway finished with a line of 25 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds and 1 steal on 8-for-19 shooting and 3-for-8 from behind the arc. It showcased his under-the-radar playmaking skills in pick-and-roll situations, finding a player like Enes Kanter around the rim.

This became the sixth time in seven outings the 26-year-old led New York in scoring, and a trend that will continue for most of the season. He may even take the NBA’s top spot in this detailed statistic by the year’s end.

It won’t happen efficiently, however, after just one game above 44 percent from the field. The lack of scoring options arguably necessitates his high volume, but also caps potential upside for this offense.

If Hardaway streaks his way to 20-plus points per game in a full season without Kristaps Porzingis, and with the Eastern Conference’s lack of depth, he has an outside chance at an All-Star game spot. It’s still three-plus months away from determination, but continued efforts like Monday’s may put him into reserve conversation.

For now, the Michigan product is the piece that makes this Knicks offense move. Without him, who knows where this unit would be.

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