The 2019 Summer League has come and gone for the Knicks (not counting a consolation game this Friday or Saturday), who squeezed out a win after dropping their first three games. There were high and low points, an earthquake-shortened game, and plenty of Twitter GM's labeling RJ Barrett a bust.
Despite the 1-3 record, there certainly were bright spots. Mitchell Robinson impressed again, averaging 3.5 blocks and 11 rebounds across the four games, while Barrett improved significantly in games three and four.
Aside from Robinson and Barrett, Jud Buechler's squad got quality production from a number of players.
Kevin Knox
Knox made waves last summer after an electric stretch that saw him average 21.2 points and flash explosive dunks. Of course, his rookie year would ultimately wind up a mixed bag, but remember: this kid is still only 19 years old.
So far, he's looked better all around. And just as he said when he touched down in Las Vegas, he has looked much more comfortable this summer.
He sank 41 percent of his shots (20-for-49), including nine of his 25 attempted three-pointers (36 3P%). The second-year rookie looked far more aggressive when driving and finishing at the rim, perhaps attributable to his work in the weight room this offseason. In addition to his shot finding its form, the second-year rookie grabbed 24 rebounds across the four games.
Of course, his performance this summer could mean nothing (like last year), but it could indeed be a sign of an improved, confident player heading into his sophomore season.
Ignas 'Iggy' Brazdeikis
The 20-year-old Brazdeikis could wind up as the next second-round steal for New York, at least based off his Summer League production. He averaged 26.3 minutes on the floor through the four games, the second-most behind Knox and Barrett's 30.3 MPG. His shot, though, was most impressive.
A strong shooter in his time at Michigan, Brazdeikis sunk nearly half (47%, 8-for-17) of his shots from the three-point line to go along with a 48 FG% (22-for-46). He also showcased strong defensive instincts, as well as a natural feel in the passing game. There's reason to believe that "Iggy" will become a go-to option off the bench in providing strong shooting and defense. He already has the makings of a fan favorite, too.
Tyler Cavanaugh
Cavanaugh, 25, came into the Summer League off stints with the Atlanta Hawks and Utah Jazz. Though his numbers (7.8 PPG, 3.5 RPG) from the four games appear modest, he made the most of his minutes. He started slow (partially due to the Earthquake) by scoring two and tallying three boards in just four minutes against the Pelicans.
Through 19 minutes in game two against the Suns, he tallied 12 points and four rebounds, in addition to making five of his eight free throw attempts. All together, he made nine of his 20 (45%) total shots from the field and grabbed at least three rebounds in all four games of action. He'll likely find himself in the G-League this year where he'll provide depth.
Honorable mention: Kadeem Allen, Kenny Wooten