Knicks Edge Past Hornets in Preseason Opener
The New York Knicks kicked off their preseason campaign with a close victory against the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday evening, securing a 111-109 win. The marquee narrative for the game was the unveiling of a revamped starting lineup, featuring new acquisitions Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges alongside returning stars Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and OG Anunoby.
Towns Makes an Instant Impact
Karl-Anthony Towns quickly made his presence felt in his debut as a Knick. Known for his sharpshooting skills, he opened his account with a three-pointer, a testament to his impressive 40% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc. Towns’ addition to the Knicks is expected to provide a significant boost to their offensive playstyle, much like his previous tenure with the Minnesota Timberwolves where he played alongside Rudy Gobert. During his time there, the duo recorded a plus-nine net rating and averaged 118 points per 100 possessions, a statistic Knicks fans are hoping Towns can replicate in New York.
Bridges Adjusts to a New Role
Joining Towns in making a starting debut for the Knicks, Mikal Bridges is adapting to a different role with the team. Having split his previous season between the Brooklyn Nets and the Phoenix Suns, Bridges demonstrated versatility in managing his on-court responsibilities. With the Nets, he had a 24% usage rate, a stark contrast to his 15% with the Suns. This ability to adjust could be crucial for the Knicks as they look to integrate their new lineup seamlessly.
Josh Hart's Shooting Struggles
Returning player Josh Hart remains a critical component of the Knicks' structure despite his ongoing struggles from beyond the arc. Last season, Hart posted a 31% success rate in 3-point attempts, with a less than satisfactory 30% from above the break. As the season progresses, improving these metrics might be essential for the Knicks' broader offensive strategy.
With the preseason underway, the Knicks are focused on establishing chemistry within their new lineup. As Towns and Bridges settle into their roles, and as Hart endeavors to refine his shooting accuracy, there's promising potential for the Knicks to build on this initial success against the Hornets. The journey to the regular season will be one to watch as they look to make a mark with their refreshed roster.