3 fire takeaways from Knicks’ rout over Pistons in preseason opener

1: The Knicks have a point guard

After watching Alec Burks run the point for the Knicks last season, seeing Jalen Brunson lead the offense in his debut was a sight for sore eyes. He signed a four-year, $104 million contract with New York in free agency and that stirred up a debate about if he’s overpaid or not. If Tuesday was an indication of how this season’s going to go for Brunson, it won’t be long until he quiets the naysayers.

Brunson finished with 16 points (7-of-9) and five assists in 20 minutes. In true Jalen Brunson fashion, the first points of the game came when he drove into the lane on the Knicks’ first offensive possession.

Jalen Brunson was the star of the show for the Knicks on Tuesday

It’s been far too long since New York had a true point guard, so it was almost strange to watch Brunson facilitate the offense. His impact didn’t stop there, either. Although he stands at six-foot-one, Brunson was a force on the defensive end, which included him taking three charges.

Last year with the Mavericks, Brunson made $1.8 million, and that number has grown exponentially to $27.7 million in 2022-23. Both of New York’s additions in free agency are proving to be money well spent.

It’s still early, but contemplating if Brunson can perform well without Luka Doncic shouldn’t be a question. The Knicks filled a huge void this summer by signing Brunson and in game one, his impact on the floor was undeniable.

It’s nice to have you in NYC, Jalen. Welcome home.

Cam Reddish injury in Knicks’ preseason opener comes at a brutal time

After a solid start in the first half of the Knicks' preseason opener, it was reported that Cam Reddish would be out with a sprained left ankle.