Knicks Hot Summer League Start

The Knicks started out their Summer League play last Friday against the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors obviously coming off of a championship year, but also have a surprisingly nice young core as well to look forward to. Second year players, Moses Moody and Jonathan Kuminga headline the Golden State squad. The Knicks are headlined by a trio of second year players in Miles McBride, Jericho Sims, and Quentin Grimes. With high hopes to see jumps in the second year players, New York is looking forward to this Summer League play to translate to regular season play. As of Friday, the high hopes are living up to expectations with a 101-88 win over Golden State.

Both teams looked more poised than most Summer League teams, which most likely comes from the players getting big minutes last regular season. The hustle, defense, and ball movement was more focused in the game between these two teams. With a fast pace added to the game, we saw a lot of transition play, especially from the Knicks. One player that impressed in transition was Feron Hunt. His rim running and emphatic dunks were a highlight in the big Knicks win. His speed and athleticism led him out in transition numerous times which led to strong finishes. His size and length were on full display as he racked in seven steals in the game. Hunt's aggression and full motor was a big part of the Knicks' play on the defensive side of the ball. The defensive intensity was a staple for this Game 1, and led to young squad tallying 16 steals total, with nearly half being Feron Hunt. While Moody hauled in 34 points in an impressive performance, they were able to hold Kuminga to just four points. All players were contributing on the defensive side getting in passing lanes, showing fluidity in movement, and proving to show the promising upside for the defense.

As for the big three, Grimes shined just as many thought he would. He showed glimpses of promise in his playing time last season, and Friday proved he can score the ball effectively. Grimes finished with a team high 24 points including four threes. He did struggle slightly from field shooting 8-21, but was still able to knock down some perimeter shots and showed flashes of aggression driving to the rim with contact. He showcased his passing ability in this game as well with eight assists in the game. This is a huge step for the Knicks team as they are hoping for these young guards to rise into a more prominent role come regular season. McBride being the other guard, once again showed his poise on both sides of the ball. He was able to run the offense getting others involved and creating for himself on a few threes. Sims rounding out the trio had a stellar showing the first game. His athleticism continues to blow everyone out of the water. His rim running and and rim protection continues to improve and showed throughout this game. The offensive game of the big man is starting to come together as more than just a lob threat with a couple of nice finishes in the post through contact were shown in the game. Overall, the trio continues to impress and lead this young squad.

Knicks fans have something to look forward to with these young playmakers. We saw impressive performances from the second year trio, and surprising performances from players like Feron Hunt and DaQuan Jeffries. The 2022 draft pick Trevor Keels did struggle offensively, but was able to contribute defensively and passing wise. The Knicks will hope to see more promise from Keels to join the others on this flourishing Summer League squad.

Notable Statlines:

Quentin Grimes - 24 Points, 8 Assists, 4 3PM, 2 Steals

Miles McBride - 14 Points, 7 Assists, 3 3PM

Jericho Sims - 16 Points, 10 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, 88% FG

Feron Hunt - 17 Points, 7 Steals, 67% FG