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New York Knicks: Who stepped up against Lakers in first win of 2019?

By Rob Wolkenbrod

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 04: Trey Burke #23 of the New York Knicks drives on a falling Josh Hart #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers, as Enes Kanter #00 looks on, during a 119-112 Knicks win at Staples Center on January 04, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. 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. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 04: Trey Burke #23 of the New York Knicks drives on a falling Josh Hart #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers, as Enes Kanter #00 looks on, during a 119-112 Knicks win at Staples Center on January 04, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. 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. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks Trey Burke (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
New York Knicks Trey Burke (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

Trey Burke

Stat Line: 16 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist, 1 steal, 6-for-13 shooting

Before Hezonja’s night took off, Burke carried the New York Knicks for a time. He delivered 10 points in a burst of energy, following up with six more to eclipse his 12 points in seven minutes against the Utah Jazz to close 2018.

Burke sat against the Denver Nuggets, however. He may not have played against the Lakers, but Ntilikina’s strained left ankle created an opportunity.

After the Frenchman went down in the first quarter, the Michigan product played 18 minutes and looked comfortable. Fizdale used him with confidence and was rewarded, which became the case earlier this season when he faced a three-game bench exile.

If Ntilikina misses time, it’s Burke’s opportunity to capitalize on. That may not last long, as the Knicks have turned towards youth over veterans, but Fizdale has provided occasional surprises.

If Burke’s future is not in New York, games like this make for trade-deadline showcases. He’s only owed $1.79 million this season — peanuts for another team to assume via trade. The team could stand to open a roster spot, and the rotation, anyway, making this an interesting candidate to leave and join a contender’s bench.

In the meantime, Burke will look for scoring consistency to maintain a role and leave his recovery from a sprained knee behind.

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