Derrick Rose's court case has pushed the New York Knicks coach Jeff Hornacek to turn his sights on other talents. Brandon Jennings has scored a starting role, while Chasson Randle has a huge chance of winning a roster spot as well.
The Knicks vs. Brooklyn Nets game last weekend at the Madison Square Garden showcased the former coming out on top. Both Jennings and Randle performed their point guard duties well, with an offense that reached 116 points. The Knicks performed fast-paced attacks, which Hornacek wanted to see most of all, USA Today Network's NorthJersey.com reported.
Jennings said that the Knicks wants to play at a fast pace and have fun at the same time. The 27-year-old point guard said that they got to "take what the game gives" them even though they are short of players right now. Jennings performed five assists, a steal, and "a playground-style flip to Marshall Plumlee for another dunk," NorthJersey.com further reported.
Though Jennings didn't score huge numbers (only four points alongside his five assists), he was still commendable for advancing the Knicks' offense. Jennings continued his pace even as Randle entered the court and made 14 points, two assists, one turnover, and three steals.
Randle, who became a fan favorite at the recent Knicks vs. Nets game, said that he tries to "max out every single day." He added that he wants to take advantage of the opportunity to play for the team because "it can easily be taken away." Randle played in the Czech Republic prior to joining the Knicks.
"I wasn't in this position last year," Randle recalled, as quoted by NorthJersey.com. "Just so happy to be here. I think that every single day I just try to live that day to the fullest."
Jennings may be used to Hornacek's fast-paced style, but Randle is still adjusting after playing triangle offense during his time at Stanford Cardinal. Randle said that Hornacek's style is slightly different, but he likes it.
Randle's prowess caught the attention of Carmelo Anthony. The latter commended the rookie's poise and how he controls the game by pushing and slowing it down. Randle, meanwhile, is flattered to receive compliments from someone like Anthony, who he looked up to when he was younger.
"Just to be on the same floor as him, all I can do is just try to bring it every single day and gain his respect. He's been around the league for a while. He knows the game. He knows what he wants in a teammate," Randle said of Anthony.
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