The New York Knicks, under head coach Mike Brown, are increasing preseason minutes for their regular starters due to a delayed start to offseason training. In a 111-109 loss to the Washington Wizards on Thursday, starters played approximately 20 minutes each, with Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart each scoring 13 points. This follows their participation in a loss to the Philadelphia 76ers earlier in the week. Brown indicated that he plans to utilize his top players in two of the remaining three preseason games.
Brown explained that the Knicks are in a unique position, having won the championship last season, which resulted in a shorter offseason. He noted that while other teams have been training since July and August, the Knicks encouraged their players to take time off and return when ready.
Brunson shot 6-for-12 from the field but struggled with three-point shooting, making only one of six attempts, while also contributing three assists. Hart was efficient, shooting 5 of 8 from the field. Other players, including Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns, had less successful outings, combining for 10 points on poor shooting percentages.
Andre Drummond stood out from the bench with nine rebounds in 20 minutes, including five offensive rebounds. James Wiseman also made a case for a roster spot with a solid performance in nine minutes.
For the second consecutive year, all Knicks players passed the conditioning test, which Brown stated is a prerequisite for practice participation. He emphasized that players who fail the test will not be allowed to practice until they pass.