Knicks: The 5 most important preseason stats fans need to know

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DETROIT, MICHIGAN – DECEMBER 11: Derrick Rose #25 of the Detroit Pistons gets tripped up by Denns Smith Jr. #4 of the New York Knicks during the second half at Little Caesars Arena on December 11, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. 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 Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

4) Team Turnover Percentage

The Knicks finished the preseason ranked 25th in turnover percentage, coughing it up on 18.8% of their possessions. Last season, New York was a little better in that department, ranking 18th in turnover percentage. But, they are now without high-usage, low-turnover guys like Marcus Morris and Bobby Portis.

More importantly, the point guard situation remains pretty grim. Even if Immanuel Quickly gets serious minutes at the one, we should still expect the growing pains that come with leaning on a rookie point guard.

Combine that with RJ Barrett’s learning curve as he takes on an increased offensive burden and there’s some real potential for this team to be heavily turnover prone. The counterpoint here is that Tom Thibodeau is a stickler for execution and he won’t tolerate a sloppy brand of basketball. Though, it should be noted that Thibs has coached some turnover-happy teams in the past: particularly his 2013-14 Bulls squad that finished 26th in TO%, per Cleaning The Glass.

At least to start the season, it should surprise no one if the Knicks struggle with turnovers.

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