Brewer a Bit Rusty in Return to Court SYRACUSE - Ronnie Brewer didn't have his best game, but that was not important in Monday's preseason meeting with the Philadelphia 76ers. Brewer was just happy to be on the court after having surgery on his left knee six months ago. Brewer, who took just two shots in his first preseason game as he focused on his defense and building chemistry with his new teammates, finished with four rebounds and three assists in 15 minutes of play. "It was good to be back out there," Brewer said after the Knicks' 98-90 loss. I was just trying to get my rhythm back and it was tough. I was just trying to push myself. Woodson said he expected Brewer to be a little rusty. "I thought his 15 minutes was positive," Woodson said. His stat line wasn't bad for a guy that's been sitting a while. Brewer will get another chance against the Nets on Wednesday to prepare for the season opener on Nov. 1. Brewer said he hoped to build strength in his legs during that time and improve his conditioning. Last week, Woodson said it was crucial to have Brewer on the floor as he is the projected starting shooting guard. Brewer pushed himself to play in Monday's game after practicing twice with the team. "I think every game and ever practice is a learning experience and to learn the strengths and weaknesses of your team," Brewer said. It will allow them to see how I play and how I can jell with them. Brewer didn't have any pain in his left knee after the game, although he knew that Monday was just a night to get comfortable. "I knew that if I did the things the doctors were telling me to do I would have the opportunity to be in this situation," he said. It worked out perfectly. Now I have to make the best of it.