New York Knicks: Who stepped up in long awaited win over Hawks?

Dennis Smith Jr.

Stat Line: 19 points, 2 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, 7-for-10 shooting, 2-for-3 on 3-pointers
Season Slash Line (Prior to Game): .431/.661/.324
Season Averages (Prior to Game): 13.5 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.3 SPG

Dennis Smith Jr.’s play with the Dallas Mavericks has somewhat carried to the New York Knicks; there are still inconsistent, inefficient games, including the previous three that did not see him cross 42 percent shooting.

However, along with the sophomore’s second and third games with the Knicks, there are nights like the streak-snapping win. He had 19 points, two rebounds and seven assists on 7-for-10 shooting. It wasn’t a shot-heavy night, and he controlled the basketball on just one turnover.

Smith has created a healthy situation for Fizdale. Point guard was Emmanuel Mudiay‘s job, but his shoulder injury halted that. Frank Ntilikina had an opportunity, too, before his own groin ailment.

What does this mean when everyone is healthy? The Knicks have seen Mudiay start for most of the season, and it would not be a surprise for Smith to retain this job for a little longer. It won’t be Ntilikina’s, after his offensive nightmares throughout the first half.

However, playing Smith with Mudiay or Ntilikina — maybe all three together — offers intrigue in a “Why not, right” scenario. Trier has struggled; Damyean Dotson has his nights; Allen is still unknown. John Jenkins, for now, can’t be forgotten, either.

There are a handful of pieces to balance, but Smith should retain a significant role no matter what. His athletic, aggressive approach at the offensive end is enough to offset defensive issues, and it makes for an exciting outlook after the All-Star break.