Kristaps Porzingis Is A Lot More NBA Ready Than Expected

Potentially Elite Defender, Part II

His physical characteristics on defense impressed Summer League onlookers, yet arguably the most alluring aspects of his defensive skill set are his intelligence and anticipation. This was best displayed during the Knick’s showdown with the Sixers, when Porzingis went head to head with fellow Top 5 draft pick Jahlil Okafor.

The former Duke powerhouse pummeled Porzingis in the early stages of the contest, routinely bullying his way to the rim. Instead of simply accepting his fate, Porzingis made the adjustment, using his length to front Okafor and prevent him from even receiving the ball in the first place.

The said switch worked wonders, with Porzingis effectively shutting down the Sixers center for most of the game’s second half.

Jul 14, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor (8) moves the ball against New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (46) during an NBA Summer League game at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

When asked if it was something Derek Fisher suggested, Porzingis responded:

"“[Okafor]’s a 5-man; I’m a 4-man. He’s really strong. He’s really skilled with the ball, so it’s hard to contain him. So, in the second half, I tried to play more aggressively so he couldn’t receive the ball….No, that was my own idea.”"

This example of Porzingis’ impressive intelligence on the defensive end of the floor is exceptionally promising for the future of the Knicks. Not only does their new draft pick possess the physical attributes necessary to develop into a top class defender, but he actually understands the nuances of that side of the game as well.

His length, size and quickness, coupled with lightning anticipation and tremendous instincts project him to eventually develop into an elite defensive big man—an increasing rarity in the modern day NBA.

Next: Mentally Prepared