Three positive takeaways from an impressive New York Knicks’ season-opener.
The New York Knicks were one of the most impressive teams to emerge from their season-opening game against the Boston Celtics Wednesday night. After an offseason in which many will question, it was hard to do that as they went 1-0 with a huge win over a team that many expect to be a top 5 seed in the Eastern Conference.
It may have taken two overtime periods for the Knicks to finally clinch the win, but there were plenty of bright spots for the team overall. And it was important for New York to prove that they can carry over last year’s regular-season to this year.
After a somewhat disappointing run in the playoffs last season, there were questions surrounding this team heading into the regular-season opener. At least for one night, the Knicks did a great job of silencing the doubters.
Before we move ahead, let’s take a look back at three big positives for the team in their season-opening win against the Celtics.
Season-opening positives for the New York Knicks: Evan Fournier comes through
After the Knicks signed Evan Fournier, many were quick to question their offseason plans. However, at least through one game, it seems like New York was smart in making that decision. Not only was Fournier good for the team, but they don’t win the game without his huge contributions.
Fournier finished with 32 points, six rebounds, four steals, and three assists on 52 percent shooting from the field and 46 percent shooting from 3-point range. He was also a team-best plus-11 overall on the night.
When the Knicks needed a scoring punch, they turned to Fournier and he came through. He gives this team an added scoring threat that they simply didn’t have a season ago – one that they desperately needed in the postseason against the Atlanta Hawks.
Season-opening positives for the New York Knicks: Julius Randle is back
After a concerning showing in the playoffs against the Hawks last year, there was concern whether Julius Randle would ever be able to get back to his pre-playoff form from last season – in which many were clamoring him for MVP consideration.
At least through one game, it appears that Randle has shaken off that bad playoff taste from his mouth. He appears ready to tear this season up and get back to that MVP form. Against the Celtics, Randle finished with 35 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds. He shot 44 percent from the field overall, added three 3’s, and was a perfect 8-8 from the free-throw line.
The fact that Randle looked a little like his old self was reassuring. If the Knicks are going to take a step forward this season, they’re going to need the best version of Randle as possible. Against the Celtics, he looked the part.
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.