Knicks fall to Nets 115-107 in preseason opener

NBA basketball has returned! With a fully revamped roster, the New York Knicks had put a good first quarter against their Brooklyn rivals but their effort faded starting with the second quarter as the Nets took over and got the win, 115-107 at Madison Square Garden.

The highly criticized Tim Hardaway Jr, alongside Enes Kanter, led New York with 17 buckets each, the former Knick also grabbing 7 rebounds while shooting 40% from the field.

Our point guard of the future, Frank Ntilikina finished with 5 points in 11 minutes during his NBA debut and struggled with his shooting, going just 1-7 but dished 3 assists comming off the bench. However, coach Jeff Hornacek spoke highly of him:

“When you’re young and only 19 and playing for the first time in the league, it’s going to be a whole new game for him.”

Kristaps Porzingis shined with 15 points and a huge block against Timofey Mozgov. Doug McDermott, who replaced Carmelo Anthony in the lineup scored 9 points while shooting 60% from the field, including a highlight dunk assisted by Willy Hernangomez.

Willy came off the bench and did what he knows best. Defended. Although he dropped just 6 buckets, he grabbed 10 boards in 15 minutes of playtime while Michael Beasley was just 2 points away of a double-double.