3. Veterans’ minutes diminishing
Coming out of the All-Star break, the Knicks said they were going to commit to giving their younger player minutes to evaluate them. The point guard spot has seen that happen, but during the homestand, it was evident at other positions as well.
Enes Kanter, who was vocal about his disdain for tanking, has seen his minutes slashed in March. His minutes per game in March are the lowest of any month this season. He sat out the game against the Raptors with an injury but averaged only 19.5 minutes per game in the other four.
Shooting guard Courtney Lee has also seen the court for fewer minutes. Lee missed the game against the Hornets for a personal matter, but saw his minutes diminished in three of the four games he played in. Lee played 37 minutes against the 76ers but totaled only 56 in the other three games.
While their minutes have been slashed, you don’t hear a peep about it from Kanter or Lee. There are no complaints from either player, as both are consummate professionals. They are watching their minutes diminish, but are good teammates and remain engaged when given minutes.
Credit should also be given to Jarrett Jack. Jack is not in the rotation, only getting into the game during garbage time. However, he has remained upbeat and is embracing his role as a mentor for the younger players on the team.