WASHINGTON — Knicks coach David Fizdale announced his starting lineup for the preseason opener against the Wizards on Monday, and the lone surprise was last year’s captain, Lance Thomas, securing the power-forward position over newly signed Mario Hezonja.
A bulkier Thomas has wowed Fizdale with his defense and leadership. Trey Burke will start at point guard alongside Tim Hardaway Jr. in the backcourt. As expected, rookie Kevin Knox will begin the game at small forward and Enes Kanter at center. Fizdale had thrown the starting-lineup jobs up for grabs.