Preseason Game Preview: New York Knicks at Washington Wizards, October 18, 2024

In their final matchup before the start of the NBA season, both the New York Knicks and Washington Wizards will likely rest key players. Tonight, with the stars aligned, it's another chance for the Knicks' rookies (Pacome Dadiet, Ariel Hukporti and Tyler Kolek) to shine, like they did in Tuesday's win over the Hornets. And it's an opportunity for fringe players like Patrick Baldwin Jr. and Tristan Vukcevic to prove their value to the club. Who knows – maybe former top ten pick Johnny Davis will wake up from his daze like Lazarus in overalls. Stranger things have happened.

At this point, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau has his nine-man rotation written down in ink. If there's one storyline to follow tonight, it's this: Who will play the overtime minutes while Landry Shamet is injured? TJ Warren maybe? It's been a few years since the promising forward made a splash in the NBA bubble and injuries have taken their toll, but the 31-year-old isn't old and the former 14th overall pick could still have enough juice to make a significant impact The Knicks bench has to contribute. What is that? Are you waiting for Marcus Morris Sr.? Seems unlikely, but we can understand it.

The Zards will be the punching bag of the league this season. They'll be like that again tonight. New York beat them once this preseason, 117-94, thanks to a double-double performance from Karl-Anthony Towns. Whoever plays for the Knicks tonight will put a nice orange ribbon on an undefeated preseason. Precious Achiuwa for 30! New York at +10. And then next week we're off to Boston for the premiere.

Game details

WHO: New York Knicks at Washington Wizards
When: Friday, October 18th at 7pm ET
Where: Capital One Arena, Washington, DC
Regard: MSG and NBA League Pass
Consequences: @ptknicksblog