Knicks Welcoming New Energy at PG

A key piece emerges for the New York Knicks.

Jeremy Brener | Nov 23, 2024

Suns Cameron Payne (15) drives against Pelicans Jose Alvarado (15) during a game at Footprint Center on Oct. 28, 2022. / Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

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New York Knicks

The New York Knicks made a lot of shrewd moves over the offseason, but one that went somewhat under the radar was the signing of veteran point guard Cam Payne, who split last season with the Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers.

Payne, 30, has experienced many highs and lows in the NBA, but it has now brought him to New York, where he hopes to have an impact with the Knicks.

"Honestly, I just wanted to come and help," Payne said reflecting upon signing with the Knicks h/t Posting and Toasting. “When I get out there I want to be aggressive and just utilize my opportunities. Obviously, I have. I’m in there. I didn’t know though coming in. I just wanted to be the best player I could be every day.”

Payne came in with little expectations, which is why he is viewing the Knicks as a full reset in his career as he looks to help chase a championship for New York.

“I kind of had to start over again, make people like me, show them what I can do," Payne said. "For sure I had to start over and I’m kind of doing it again. Kind of go out there playing so everybody knows what I do, what I bring to the table. I’m starting to turn some heads a little bit. Hopefully, I can get some love there in New York.”

It's only been a handful of games, but Payne is delivering for the Knicks. He is averaging 8.2 points and 3.4 assists for the Knicks as the second unit's point guard, a key spot in the rotation.

His play so far has impressed his teammate and captain Jalen Brunson.

“He brings energy, regardless of what’s going on on the court. He may play a lot. He may not play a lot. But his energy is always there and he’s a great teammate to have around," Brunson said. “I hate to play against him. But honestly having him as a teammate, he’s been amazing.”

Payne's contributions have also been a welcomed addition for coach Tom Thibodeau, who appreciates the veteran point guard's career through the NBA as a journeyman.

“All the things that Cam has been through has helped him and he’s responded," Thibodeau said. "Whatever adversity has come his way he’s always found a way to get above it. Now he’s established himself as a really good player in this league. So he’s brought a lot to our team.”

Payne and the Knicks are back in action today as they take on the Utah Jazz. Tipoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. ET.

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Published Nov 23, 2024

JEREMY BRENER

Jeremy Brener is an editor, writer and social media manager for several Fan Nation websites. His work has also been featured in 247 Sports and SB Nation as a writer and podcaster. Brener has been with Fan Nation since 2021. Brener grew up in Houston, going to Astros, Rockets and Texans games as a kid. He moved to Orlando in 2016 to go to college and pursue a degree. He hosts "The Dream Take" podcast covering the Rockets, which has produced over 350 episodes since March 2020. Brener graduated in May 2020 from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism minoring in Sport Business Management. While at UCF, Brener worked for the school's newspaper NSM.today and "Hitting the Field," a student-run sports talk show and network. He was the executive producer for "Hitting the Field" from 2019-20. During his professional career, Brener has covered a number of major sporting events including the Pro Bowl, March Madness and several NBA and NFL games. As a fan, Brener has been to the 2005 World Series, 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 NCAA National Championship between the Villanova Wildcats and North Carolina Tar Heels. Now, Brener still resides in the Central Florida area and enjoys writing, watching TV, hanging out with friends and going to the gym. Brener can be followed on Twitter @JeremyBrener. For more inquiries, please email jeremybrenerchs@gmail.com.