Daily Knicks
Fansided

NBA Legends Who Have Praised Knicks’ Kristaps Porzingis

By Maxwell Ogden

Jan 6, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis dribbles the ball before a game against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 6, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis dribbles the ball before a game against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
7 of 10
Next
Dec 23, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) defends New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) in the second quarter at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 23, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) defends New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) in the second quarter at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

LeBron James

Long before he was selected at No. 1 overall in the 2003 NBA Draft, LeBron James was the source of otherworldly hype. Heralded as the next best player in NBA history, the then high school standout was anointed as King.

That may appear meaningless to this discussion, but it’s not; it’s a sign that he understands what it’s like to be the center of unconventional hype.

That’s exactly what Kristaps Porzingis has experienced as a 7’3″ anomaly thriving in New York City. While outsiders may call him overrated, the reality is that the New York media machine will not relent in promoting its stars.

According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, James believes that Porzingis and his fans have every reason to be optimistic.

"“I think hes a pretty good player. I think he has a bright future if he continues to get better…. He will get stronger & I think he knows how to play the game. I think it was a good decision for them. On the rookie’s waived off game-winner, LeBron says: “They gave him an open shot, I dont know why. Hes a very good 3-point shooter. Hes confident in his ability & he should be.”"

“And he should be.”

James has lived up to the hype by winning two NBA championships, a pair of Finals MVP awards, and four regular season MVP honors. Porzingis is a long way from reaching that level of greatness, but his race with Karl-Anthony Towns for Rookie of the Year is loosely comparable to James’ with Carmelo Anthony.

Only time will tell whether or not Porzingis’ confidence will pay off.

Next: Top 5 All-Time

Home/Knicks News