Jalen Duren being OUT is the biggest part of this matchup... Paul Reed is projected to handle the starting center minutes
So, my expectation is that the Knicks can create opportunities for KAT through: early post seals, rolls, offensive rebounds, pick and pops against this Pistons frontcourt
If Ausar Thompson plays, I’d expect him to take the primary Jalen Brunson assignment, and that is significant for how NY generates their offense
His length and ability to stay attached will make Brunson’s individual creation a lot more difficult, giving Mike Brown reason to involve KAT through screening actions
If Detroit’s big steps toward Brunson > KAT can become the immediate release valve on a roll or pop, & that creates a path for KAT to attack this depleted frontcourt while Thompson is occupied with Brunson
Notably, his shot profile makes Duren’s absence especially relevant here. Through his first 37 FG attempts: 62% have come inside 10 ft, including 51% at the rim
That’s roughly 23 shots in close, with 19 coming directly at the basket. Another 30% have come from ATB threes, giving him a perimeter option
KAT has also received substantial volume vs DET with Brunson, Hart, OG, Bridges, ALL active: 18, 17 & 14 FGA, average of 16.33 attempts per game
As long as he stays out of foul trouble, he should clear this comfortably. That is my ONLY concern
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