Season-opening positives for the New York Knicks: Mitch and RJ looked strong
Additionally, for the Knicks, Mitchell Robinson and RJ Barrett looked good in their season debuts. Neither of them will get the headlines that they deserved, but after an injury-riddled season a year ago it was important for Robinson to prove that he’s healthy and ready to contribute again.
And that’s exactly what he did by finishing with a strong 11-point, 17-rebound performance against the Celtics. He also had two blocks on the night.
Similarly, Barrett finished with 19 points and five rebounds on an efficient shooting night. He also finished with a plus-8 on a team-high 47 minutes played.
The Knicks will need big – and consistent – contributions from both Robinson and Barrett throughout this season. They’re the two budding young stars that could help unlock this team’s ceiling this season. Either way, the Knicks looked relatively strong in their debut against a fellow playoff team.