Knicks center Jericho Sims went from starter to did not play (DNP) in Monday’s game against the Raptors after struggling in the previous two games. Coach Tom Thibodeau decided to stick with Precious Achiuwa as the lone frontcourt reserve in an eight-man rotation, leaving Sims on the bench. Achiuwa finished with seven points in 16 minutes while alternating between center and power forward.
Meanwhile, during the game, Jalen Brunson twisted his ankle but returned to help the Knicks secure a 113-108 win over the Raptors. RJ Barrett, who had a strong performance with 30 points, eight rebounds, and four assists, pointed out that his uptick in production is related to the different playing style of the team in Toronto.
Barrett, once considered the future face of the Knicks, was dealt to Toronto last December in a trade for OG Anunoby. Barrett, who is from the Toronto area, expressed that he knew he was going to be traded because of how he was treated by the organization. Despite his success with the Raptors, Barrett acknowledged that he sensed being traded from the Knicks due to various factors.
The Knicks are preparing for further lineup changes, with Sims falling out of the rotation and Achiuwa emerging as a significant contributor off the bench. As the Knicks continue to navigate the season, the team is focused on utilizing its young talent to secure wins and improve their standing in the Eastern Conference.
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