New York Knicks: 5 Upside Comparisons For Kristaps Porzingis
The New York Knicks have entrusted the future of the organization to Latvian sensation Kristaps Porzingis. What can New York expect in the long-term?
Kristaps Porzingis has come a long way since he was known as the scrawny European kid whom Phil Jackson shouldn’t have drafted. In just one season, he’s effectively earned the title of the future franchise player for the New York Knicks.
Though Porzingis may not be like any other player in NBA history, there are upside comparisons that can collectively define what he’s capable of achieving.
Porzingis is a 7’3″ and near 240-pound power forward with the positional versatility to play center on a full-time basis. He can score with his back to the basket, space the floor from beyond the arc, and take his man off the bounce.
On the opposite end, Porzingis’ height, length, athleticism, and coordination enable him to dominate the defensive interior.
Porzingis made the All-Rookie First Team in 2015-16. He earned that distinction by becoming the first rookie in NBA history to record at least 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 100 blocks, and 75 3-point field goals made.
The question is: which players best represent Porzingis’ full NBA potential?