Analyst Alan Hahn was left impressed with New York Knicks player Cameron Payne’s performance in the team’s 122-103 win against the Washington Wizards
Payne, who usually comes off the bench was given the nod to start the game and he made it count with 13 points and seven assists in 29 minutes.
He shot only 33.3 % from the field, but made some good plays to help the New York Knicks get over the line in the absence of guards like Jalen Brunson and Miles McBride.
Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby led the way for the Knicks, combining for 81 points against the Wizards.
It was a dominant display from top to bottom and Hahn acknowledged Payne’s role in helping the Knicks secure the win.
Hahn heaps praise on Payne’s energy for the New York Knicks
Payne has been a vital piece for the Knicks coming off the bench all season, but injuries led to Tom Thibodeau making the decision to give him the start.
Speaking on his performance in his analysis, Hahn said: “I loved the way Cameron Payne started this game.
“He got the start, and he said ‘you know what, I’m going to be the catalyst, I’m going to be the guy to get us going’ and that’s exactly what he did.
“He knocked down a couple of threes, he was aggressive that’s what Payne has to bring, such an energetic guy, he loved getting the start, it’s his second start of the season and the Knicks are 2-0.”
The only other game Payne started was against the Utah Jazz where he scored eight points and recorded nine assists.
Numbers suggest, Payne has the credentials to play key minutes for the Knicks and with Brunson out, Thibodeau could consider giving the 30-year-old a starting spot.
The New York Knicks have a deep roster
The New York Knicks are currently third seed in the East and despite having injuries all season, they have done well to stay in the top half of the standings.
The Knicks are expected to have troubles without Brunson winning, but the Knicks still have quality players like Payne and McBride who could fill the point-guard position.
Although they do not have the ability to drop Brunson like numbers, the duo could help keep the Knicks offense flowing.
Aside from the guard position, the Knicks have the likes of Precious Achiuwa and even Mitchell Robinson coming off the bench for them.
Both these players are incredible defenders and could play a vital role for Tom Thibodeau, who has recently come under a lot of scrutiny.
PJ Tucker was a recent addition to the roster and his presence in a team is invaluable as he brings a lot of toughness and a winning mentality.
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