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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 Enes Kanter (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
New York Knicks Enes Kanter (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

Enes Kanter

Stat Line: 16 points, 15 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks, 5-for-11 shooting, 1-for-2 on three-pointers

The players who stepped up all arguably do not play into the New York Knicks’ future, which made this win’s timing staggering and unusual. Enes Kanter was perhaps the epitome of this, as he questioned a reduced role amid a focus on young players.

Friday’s win over the Lakers still saw Kanter play off the bench, but in 26 minutes compared to Luke Kornet‘s 17. That’s due to a second consecutive double-double, a rare three-block night and a made three-pointer.

The Turkish center was as much a contributor as Burke and Hezonja in this victory, and it was not just a stat sheet-stuffing night, given his surprising rim protection.

More of those nights would benefit Kanter’s standing, but his defense has been subpar since the opener. Along with Mitchell Robinson’s impending return, it may dampen the veteran’s outlook.

So, like the others, this performance might not mean much immediately. Youth takes precedence with the Knicks, putting the veterans to the side, including Lee and Thomas. Kanter will still play, but not at Tim Hardaway Jr.-esque levels of 38 minutes.

Next. 25 greatest players in NYK history. dark

The New York Knicks will return to the court on Monday, Jan. 7, to face the Portland Trail Blazers. It’s the fifth leg of a six-game road trip.

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