As we all know that Knicks lost their season opener, but at the same time they might have found their starting point guard.
Knicks Might have Found starting point Guard
The decision of Coach David Fizdale in order to experiment by starting rookie RJ Barrett against the Spurs at point guard on Wednesday backfired, but then he realized quickly about his error.
Fizdale reversed course with a super-steady Elfrid Payton in order to begin the second half at point guard as well as after the first quarter the Knicks looked very competitive.
In addition to that, the Knicks were looking poised in order to steal one at AT&T Center, leading by six points with 8:08 left. On the other hand, the Spurs beat the game away with an 18-0 fourth-quarter run in order to post a 120-111 season-opening victory.
“Overall I was really happy with our defense,’’ Fizdale said, citing 16 steals.
He then further added, “That’s a monster team to try to defend. It’s two-and-a-half weeks we’ve been together. To compete against a team like that that’s been together at least three years, I was very proud of that effort.”
Talking about Payton, who was the third point guard to enter in the second quarter as well as made the Knicks look good once again. He was the one who finished with 11 points, eight assists, five steals, no turnovers as well as he got a plus-14 for the team. The only other Knick on the plus side was plus-6 by Julius Randle.
Fizdale said, “He turned our pace up. He started making plays for different people. Nothing’s in stone. All three point guards got to play. Elfrid took it up a notch, helped give us a chance.”
When he was asked if he is going to start against the Nets on Friday, Fizdale wouldn’t fully commit. he said, “Maybe,’’ Fizdale said. “I’m going to watch the film. Elfrid absolutely put his foot forward, took it to heart and ramped up the competition.”
Payton on the other hand also said, “Just trying to help in any way possible. Just trying to do what I do. Be a defensive presence, get into the paint, get the ball to my teammates.”
Randle, who played with Payton in New Orleans also stated, “True professional,’’ . He then added, “Stayed ready, his number was called in the second quarter. Stayed locked in and got us going. Pushing the pace on the offensive end and obviously played great defense. That’s what a true professional is right there.’’
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