'Really Cool!' KAT Reacts To Debut in Knicks Win

As a kid, Jalen Brunson dreamed of playing for his hometown New York Knicks. As a kid, Karl-Anthony Towns shared that dream.

On Sunday night, it became a dual reality for the two native New Yorkers as the Knicks opened the preseason with a 111-109 win at the Charlotte Hornets, with the big man Towns made his debut following the recent blockbuster trade with Minnesota.

“Finally getting to put a Knicks jersey on and playing 5-on-5, that was really cool,'' said Towns, the four-time NBA All-Star, last week.

Also cool: the offensive versatility Towns projects to bring to the Brunson-led Knicks, some of which was on display here. Towns totaled 10 points on 2-for-7 shooting and added four rebounds in 15 minutes. Brunson, meanwhile, had 12 points on 5-for-11 shooting and chipped in with three assists.

Both stars played in the first half only, which ended in a 61-61 tie.

Chemistry and how long it'll take to get it is now a front-burner issue with the Knicks, a natural thought following the deal that sent out Julius Randle and guard Donte DiVincenzo. Randle is a three-time All-Star; DiVincenzo was part of the "Nova Knicks'' fit.

Said Towns of his new mates: “I know their talents, so it’s a matter of playing with them.

Added Brunson: “It’s definitely going to take time, but when people are willing to do what it takes to win it’s going to flow at some point. We’re talking consistently, we’re on the same page and we’re excited to be teammates.”

The 7-foot center is known for his perimeter shooting, which was not quite up to par here. But obviously, it's early, and the fellas are all still learning about each other. For now, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau termed the whole flow "a little choppy.''

Related: 'Shocked & Flabbergasted' KAT 'Gets to Work'

But eventually? The nine-year vet Towns over the course of his career has averaged 22.9 points and 10.8 rebounds while shooting almost 40 percent from 3-point range. The flow will come. The chemistry will come.

“These guys are all super, super special and they are all very talented and they put the work in,” Towns said.

For the moment, putting on that jersey is enough.