New York Knicks: Who stepped up in overtime win against Bucks?

Kevin Knox

Stat Line: 26 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 9-for-20 shooting, 5-for-12 on three-pointers

A piece from The New York Post documented league-wide criticism for Kevin Knox, who shot just 32.5 percent entering the Bucks game. He was labeled “soft” and others didn’t love his game over 16 appearances for the New York Knicks.

However, with one breakout game, Knox shutdown the criticism and delivered a career performance in his young career.

The Kentucky product delivered 26 points, four rebounds, four rebounds and five three-pointers to become one of the difference-makers in this win. His outside shooting alone made up one-quarter of New York’s made baskets from behind the arc.

It was a confident and aggressive Knox throughout this game, a la what he did in Summer League. He took ample shots before this, but with questionable selection and defense. Saturday night, he blocked Antetokounmpo.

Knox soared above criticism for his best NBA game, which created a remarkable development in his small dose of action — that one eye-opening game to realize what he’s capable of. Sure, it may not happen every night this season, but down the line? It’s a tantalizing prospect for the Knicks’ rebuilding.

Knox looked sound, Fizdale has confidence in him, and this should continue in his growth as a professional basketball player for the New York Knicks.