New York Knicks: David Fizdale still hasn’t found his point guard
The New York Knicks put up a valiant effort in their loss to the San Antonio Spurs but still haven’t figured out their point guard situation.
New York Knicks head coach David Fizdale enters his second season at the helm of a young team still trying to find it’s way. The loss to the San Antonio Spurs won’t destroy the franchise, and in any constellation, it allowed newcomer Julius Randle and rookie RJ Barrett to shine. Randle had his first double as a Knick while Barrett contributed 21 points.
The critical question yet to be answered is who will be the starting point guard? Fizdale dodged answering this with a starting line up featuring two shooting guards with Allonzo Trier joining Barrett in the backcourt. Fizdale waited 90 minutes before game time to announce his starting line up surprisingly straying away from Frank Ntilikina, Elfrid Payton, and Dennis Smith Jr.
The three point guard contenders weren’t impressive in preseason or training camp leading Fizdale to the bold decision. Smith Jr. And Ntilikina were none factors during the game with Payton proving to be the most effective. Payton finished with 11 points, eight assists, five steals, and, most importantly, no turnovers leading many to speculate him starting Friday night in Brooklyn.
Fizdale shared his thoughts with reporters on Payton’s performance without giving any medication if he will be the starter.
"”He turned our pace up,’’ Fizdale said. “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.”"
"”I’m going to watch the film. Elfrid absolutely put his foot forward, took it to heart and ramped up the competition.”"
The Knicks not sure about the point guard position is disturbing, considering they have made commitments to all three candidates. Fizdale has always found ways to get the most from his players in the past, and that quality will need to be put on full display for the team to succeed.