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New York Knicks: International Players Worth Pursuing

By Maxwell Ogden

February 21, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Ekpe Udoh (13) moves to the basket against the defense of Sacramento Kings forward Eric Moreland (25) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
February 21, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Ekpe Udoh (13) moves to the basket against the defense of Sacramento Kings forward Eric Moreland (25) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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1. Willy Hernangomez, Real Madrid

Position: Center
Age: 21
Slash Line: .667/.000/.756
Season Averages: 12.2 MPG, 5.8 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 1.3 ORPG, 0.6 BPG

If you recognize the name Willy Hernangomez, it’s likely because the New York Knicks acquired his draft rights at the 2015 NBA Draft. If you’re familiar with his international background, then you know the key detail to imply that New York should bring him over for the 2016-17 season.

Hernangomez and Kristaps Porzingis were teammates on Baloncesto Sevilla from 2013 to 2015, which could prove invaluable to the development of KP6 in New York.

Hernangomez is quite similar to the Knicks’ current starting center: Robin Lopez. He may not offer much in 2016-17, but he’s a high-energy big man who crashes the boards, throws his body around down low, and has a developing skill set.

As it pertains to Porzingis, a second season in the NBA can be brutal, and having a familiar face in the locker room could help him immensely as opposing teams begin to learn his tendencies.

As his own individual player, Hernangomez is an excellent offensive rebounder with a strong build at 6’11” with a near 7’2″ wingspan. He’s surprisingly polished for a player his age with his back to the basket, and has immense potential in the pick-and-roll.

More knicks: Which free agent center would be the best fit for the Knicks?

The Knicks will miss a grand opportunity if they fail to bring Hernangomez over for the 2016-17 season.

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