Jalen Branson played 64 minutes as Nick, demonstrating his ability to score, distribute and improve the players around him. But perhaps the most impressive statistic contains zero: sales.
Despite frequently playing with the ball in his hands, Branson has yet to record a turnover while recording 15 assists.
“He understands the game very well. I think that’s probably the most important thing,” manager Tom Thibodeau said after the game. Knicks beat Pistons 130-106, in the home opener at the Gardens. “And I think how you manage and control the game is another strength. , it’s either a dangerous pass you’re trying to needle, or you’re overdoing it one-on-one. And he’s got a great sense of when to go and when to pass.”
Brunson was efficient, scoring 17 points and six assists in 28 minutes. Perhaps his most impressive play came in the first quarter. Brunson gave up his body to prevent his ball from going loose and out of bounds and falling into the crowd, leading to a layup on RJ Barrett.
“I think hustle play just keeps the team together and inspiring,” said Thibodeau.
While the Knicks and their fans held out hopes of acquiring Jaden Ivey heading into the June draft, the former Purdue star had his fingers crossed that he would end up with the Pistons.
“Family ties with the city. I always went to Pistons games and always looked forward to going to games,” Ivy told the Post before the Knicks’ home opener. “I was always looking forward to going to Detroit.
Ivey selected by Pistons The fifth overall draft pick, he spoke about the Knicks before the draft, saying in a pre-draft interview, “The New York Knicks are going to be a tremendous opportunity, a tremendous organization.” I am honored to be able to play there. ” He also said, ”There may be circumstances in which I can land in New York.”
Recalling these comments, Ivey said:
Quentin Grimes (sore left leg) was sidelined, but he appeared to be making progress and could have done more before the game. He hasn’t fully practiced yet after a nasty left foot discomfort returned after playing in last Friday’s preseason game.
“He seems to be moving well. But that’s how he feels the day after he’s increased it,” said Thibodeau.
Pistons coach Dwayne Casey says Detroit never considered keeping Kemba Walker after a draft night trade with the Knicks.
“We understood where Kemba was at the time. We had conversations about buyouts and the whole 9-yard,” Casey said. We just got Cunningham and Cory Joseph.”
Walker, 32, remains out of the team.
