New York Knicks point guard Kemba Walker had some ups and downs at the beginning of the 2021-22 NBA season. He was far from the only reason that the team was struggling, but many understood why he was removed from the starting lineup and rotation after the team got off to an 11-9 start, 10-8, with him.
It was a tough thing for Walker to handle, as sitting out isn’t something he has ever had to do in his basketball career. Alas, he took the demotion in stride, remaining upbeat and positive, helping the team any other way he could.
On Friday night, after nine games of being out of the rotation, Walker got his chance to start again. With Obi Toppin, RJ Barrett, Quentin Grimes, Kevin Knox II, Immanuel Quickley and Duece McBride sidelined in the league’s health and safety protocols and Derrick Rose nursing a sore ankle, Walker was thrust back into the lineup.
He responded as you would hope that he would; with a big game. The Knicks lost 114-107 to the Boston Celtics, but Walker did everything he could to help his team.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Could It Be Kemba Walker Time Again With New York Knicks?
He scored a season-high 29 points against his former team, grabbing six rebounds and handing out three assists before fouling out with just about two minutes remaining in the game. 17 of those 29 points came in the third quarter when the Knicks mounted a huge comeback, taking the lead after trailing by as many as 16 points.
Following the game, Walker was asked about if he wanted to remain with his hometown Knicks. It was something he didn’t really have an answer to, just saying he wants to play.
“I want to play,” Walker said. “I don’t know. So it is what it is.”
He added: “I don’t know what the future holds, you know? I do feel like I have a lot to give still. I don’t know. That’s up to these guys.”
This was a vintage performance from Walker, ones that have been few and far between in recent seasons. His degenerative knee condition knocked him off course during his time with the Celtics and his role with the Knicks didn’t allow for many big performances. But, when the team needed him, he showed that he could still perform at a high level.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Could It Be Kemba Walker Time Again With New York Knicks?
Walker is the consummate professional, as he will do whatever the team asks of him. But, he knows that he can still play even after being removed from the Knicks’ rotation.
“I know I should be playing, so no question. It feels great,” he said. “But whatever situation I’m in, I’m gonna stay locked in, stay prepared. Whatever the team needs from me, I’ll be there for them.”
After his performance against the Boston Celtics, Kemba Walker should remain in the lineup for the foreseeable future. The New York Knicks are very short-handed, especially in the backcourt, and could remain that way through the New Year.
