Lance Thomas was named starting power forward for the Knicks’ preseason opener and has done nothing to lose his grip on the job.
A co-captain last season, Thomas’ leadership is exemplary in setting a defensive tone and he has grown on the offensive end. But coach David Fizdale most appreciates the take-charge attitude.
“Lance is just … man is he a good leader,’’ Fizdale said. “He’s just a really good leader. Those guys respect him big time. When he speaks, the gym shuts down and everybody listens.’’
The longest-tenured Knick, Thomas was a co-captain last season with Courtney Lee, who hasn’t played yet because of a sore neck.