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New York Knicks: Projecting the starting lineup for second preseason game

By Rob Wolkenbrod

WASHINGTON, DC -  OCTOBER 7: Kevin Knox #20 of New York Knicks high-fives RJ Barrett #9 of New York Knicks against the Washington Wizards during the preseason on October 7, 2019 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC -  OCTOBER 7: Kevin Knox #20 of New York Knicks high-fives RJ Barrett #9 of New York Knicks against the Washington Wizards during the preseason on October 7, 2019 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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With the second preseason game ahead for the New York Knicks, who could fill out the starting lineup?

On Friday, Oct. 11, the New York Knicks will play their first game at Madison Square Garden since the end of the 2018-19 season. The Washington Wizards, who they defeated on Monday, 104-99, are on their way to Manhattan for a rematch.

Without an announced starting lineup for opening night, it puts each preseason starting five into question. Who will David Fizdale try out one night? Will one of these lineups stick when the Knicks face the San Antonio Spurs on Oct. 23?

The preseason opener may have hinted at some of the decisions, but it is possible for him to use an alternate lineup for this second game Friday night. Who could receive the nod? Let’s project:

Point Guard: Elfrid Payton

As of Oct. 10, Dennis Smith Jr.’s status for Friday is unknown, after he missed the first preseason game with a back injury. Elfrid Payton started the opener, and with the report of him playing into the full-time role, he should have another chance to handle the basketball.

Shooting Guard: RJ Barrett

For the second half of that game, RJ Barrett was the Knicks’ best player, finishing with 17 points on 6-for-13 shooting. Along with seven rebounds and three assists, it was a productive evening.

If Fizdale decides to mix and match, Barrett may not start each preseason game. However, after his night against the Wizards, he deserves another opportunity.

Small Forward: Kevin Knox

The first lineup change, Kevin Knox slots in as the starting small forward. This has nothing to do with Marcus Morris’ early ejection, but just a chance to see how the second-year pro fares in his first start. Flip-flopping them to offer different lineup looks makes sense over the next three games.

Power Forward: Julius Randle

Amid other players’ nights, Julius Randle added seven rebounds and seven assists to his 11 points. Power forward is, without doubt, his spot, and unless Fizdale rests him for a full game, the most expensive newcomer will not leave the starting lineup.

Center: Mitchell Robinson

Another no-brainer, Mitchell Robinson is New York’s shot-blocking force, swatting four shots on Monday night. If Bobby Portis is healthy though, he could cut into some of those 28 minutes garnered.

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Whoever opens this game for the New York Knicks, the action will start at 7:30 p.m. ET on MSG, NSWA and NBA League Pass.

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