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

By Rob Wolkenbrod

New York Knicks Frank Ntilikina(Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
New York Knicks Frank Ntilikina(Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 29: Enes Kanter #00 of the New York Knicks shoots 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)
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 29: Enes Kanter #00 of the New York Knicks shoots 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) /

1. Enes Kanter

Enes Kanter had a fine first game off the bench, with 8 points and 13 rebounds in 20 minutes against the Warriors. That followed with an interesting post-game interview, where he reiterated David Fizdale’s desire for him to “lead the second unit.”

Defensive issues pushed the Turkish center to the bench, even to hold up the second unit. It showed against the Nets in spurts, but, more often than not, he was the best piece in the New York Knicks performance.

In 26 minutes, Kanter wrecked Brooklyn in the paint, with 15 points and 15 rebounds. He turned the ball over six times, but still led the second unit and the rest of the roster.

After the game, via MSG Networks, his comments remained similar to Friday, but not as abrupt and awkward and with a slightly brighter attitude.

As long as Kanter remains productive off the bench, he’ll continue to lead the second unit for the next few games. Likely not an ideal situation for someone in a contract season at age 26, but poor on-court body language would do him no good for future aspirations.

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Maybe he retakes the starting spot later this season if Mitchell Robinson goes to the G League. For now, sixth man is his role and he’s playing it smoothly.

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