New York Knicks 6 Takeaways From The Preseason

Starting Lineup Set

Oct 9, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) celebrates with New York Knicks center Robin Lopez (8) against the Washington Wizards in the third quarter at Verizon Center. The Knicks won 115-104. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

When the Knicks entered training camp last season, there were a number of starting spots up for grabs. That is not the case this time around, as Derek Fisher had a plan coming into training camp and the preseason and he is putting it into place. There was one spot up for grabs, but Fisher put that to rest earlier this week, announcing who will be the starting five on opening night.

That starting five will be Jose Calderon, Arron Afflalo, Carmelo Anthony, Kristaps Porzingis and Robin Lopez. It is a nice group, as it will enable Porzingis to grow alongside the starting unit without much pressure. Anthony will carry the offensive load, while Lopez will anchor the defense. It enables Porzingis to be a role player to continue learning the ropes and continue growing, both as a player and physically.

While Anthony will be the focal point of the offense, there is a nice combination of skills on that side of the ball. Afflalo has been a go-to player in the past, and all four players can knock down a jump shot. It should help open things up in the freer flowing triangle offense Fisher is employing this season as the floor should be spread effectively.

While Porzingis is obviously the wild card here, as his progress can either raise or lower the performance of this unit, Calderon is the X-Factor. Unlike last season, Calderon looks healthy and ready to go heading into the regular season, which would be a boost for the Knicks. His outside shooting and ability to be a facilitator will be needed as the Knicks work a lot of new faces into the system.

The one thing that could ruin all of this is injury, which takes us into the next slide.

Next: Injury Concerns For Veteran