Knicks Preview: Keys to Defeating Los Angeles Lakers

Nov 6, 2015; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks power forward

(6) reacts in front of Milwaukee Bucks point guard

(21) after dunking an offensive rebound during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. The Bucks defeated the Knicks 99-92. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

4. Kristaps Porzingis versus Julius Randle

The Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks share a common trait. It’s not just that they’re led by all-time scorers, but that they have young power forwards with star potential.

Kristaps Porzingis versus Julius Randle will be a clash of styles and abilities.

Randle is undersized at a somewhat generous 6’9″, but he’s a bully at 250 pounds. He pounds the ball down low, all the while possessing the ability to face up and either shoot or take his man off the bounce.

That spells trouble against Porzingis, who is No. 2 in the NBA in fouls per game.

Porzingis’ thin frame will be put to the test, but so will Randle’s severe size disadvantage. Porzingis is 7’3″ and can play both inside and out, spacing the floor with his jump shot and dominating the offensive glass.

The question is, can Porzingis stay out of foul trouble and maintain his average of 3.8 offensive rebounds per game—No. 3 in the Association?

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