2: A solid showing from the Knicks’ bench
New York’s depth is its main strength, and depth is something that Memphis is currently lacking. However, the Knicks could be without both Quentin Grimes and Obi Toppin. If both end up not playing, or if one ends up not playing (with the one not playing presumably being Grimes), the bench should still be one of the team’s strong points against the Grizzlies.
It helps significantly that Derrick Rose is healthy after he missed the majority of last season due to a nagging ankle injury. The 34-year-old veteran makes New York’s second unit even stronger with his leadership.
Isaiah Hartenstein will be making his Knicks regular-season debut, and fans were able to see what it’s like to have a true stretch five on the floor during the preseason. Immanuel Quickley’s another player to watch too, although he didn’t perform as expected over the past couple of weeks.
New York’s bench had its highs and lows during the preseason, but the reserves could end up claiming their first victim on Wednesday night.