Knicks Stock Report:
The Knicks entered preseason without a set lineup, and, according to Tom Thibodeau, they finished without one. Aside from Julius Randle and RJ Barrett, it’s hard to determine who might be the starters in Wednesday’s opener against the Pacers.
But preseason offered encouraging moments, twists and unexpected contributions, finishing Friday for New York with a 3-1 record. It’s probably foolish to place too much stock in two games apiece against the bottom of the barrel (Pistons and Cavaliers), but we’ll try with this Daily News’ post-preseason stock report:
RJ BARRETT
Up
Played every game and led the Knicks by averaging 17.8 points per. He played aggressively and controlled offensively, solidifying his starting wing spot. The 3-point shooting remained an issue in preseason (just 13%), but he was surprisingly efficient from the foul line at an 87%. It’s a small sample size but improvement from his disappointing 61% as a rookie.
IGNAS BRAZDEIKIS
Stock: Down
Didn’t get a preseason chance until the second half of a blowout in the final game, then managed just one point in 17 minutes. The 2019 second-round pick is still searching for a real opportunity in the NBA, but don’t be surprised if he’s headed to the G League again.
REGGIE BULLOCK
Steady
Bullock started the final two games and balanced a poor showing in the first with a strong effort in the second. It was a good sign Thibodeau went back to Bullock after he shot 1-for-6 from 3 in the first game against the Cavs, and his final preseason averages were decent: 8.5 points, 48% shooting, 32% from 3-point, 3.2 rebounds. As always, Bullock’s effective if he’s hitting the