New York Knicks: Results of drastic lineup change vary
Noah Vonleh
Slash line since move: .545/.286/.818
Average stats since move: 7.0 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 0.4 3PM, 20.9 MPG
Lance Thomas
Slash line since move: .400/.143/1.000
Average stats since move: 4.4 PPG, 1.4 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG, 0.2 3PM
Lance Thomas won’t be mistaken for an offense-first player, but he entered the starting lineup on opening night to off-set the presences of Burke, Kanter and Hardaway. When it resulted in too much one-way play, it caused a change.
Vonleh was terrific in the first five-game set, debuting with a double-double and grabbing 5 or more rebounds in each matchup. That earned him a starting spot which began well, with 14 points and 10 rebounds versus the Indiana Pacers, but since fell off.
Over the past two games, due to nine fouls, the Indiana product has averaged just 3.0 points and 3.5 rebounds in 20 minutes. His aggressive approach worked well but caught up quickly.
No changes were indicated after Sunday’s loss to the Washington Wizards, but with Kevin Knox‘s return near, it puts Vonleh’s spot on the line. The rookie forward can slot in as the starting stretch four within a few games if he slowly works into the rotation.
Even if Vonleh leaves the starting lineup, Thomas’ chances to reenter seem slim to none, barring injuries.
This is potentially the only starting spot in flux, for now, unless the coaching staff has another trick up its sleeve.