New York Knicks Takeaways From Opening Night Victory Over Milwaukee Bucks
Derrick Williams Rewrites Record Books
Oct 28, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; New York Knicks forward
Derrick Williams(23) drives for the basket as Milwaukee Bucks guard
Michael Carter-Williams(5) defends during the first quarter at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
A big reason for the victory tonight was the play of the bench, who got the Knicks going in the first quarter. The catalyst was Derrick Williams, who carried over his strong performance from the preseason into the regular season. Williams was outstanding for the Knicks, leading the way with 24 points, 15 of which came in the first half to help get the Knicks control of the game.
Williams re-wrote the Knicks record book tonight, just evidence to how explosive he really was tonight. He tied the Knicks record for the most points off the bench in a Knicks debut, tying Eddie House and Eddie Lee Wilkins. Williams 24 points also tied the Knicks record for points off the bench in a season opener, which Wilkins held with Dave Stallworth.
He got out in the open court multiple times for easy baskets, and made a living at the foul line, making 7-of-9 from the foul line. He did more than just score, as he also pulled down seven rebounds, four of which were of the offensive variety. He also added one assist and one block, finishing with an impressive plus/minus ratio of +20.
The Knicks have made it a point to get Williams comfortable in a role, and so far so good. They are using him as the go-to offensive player in the second unit, and he has taken full advantage so far.
Next: Knicks Bench Explodes