New York Knicks: 5 Areas For Kristaps Porzingis To Improve

2. Fourth Quarter Versatility

For as brilliant as he was during his rookie season, Kristaps Porzingis was a glaring omission from many late-game situations. Despite his offensive versatility, both Derek Fisher and Kurt Rambis struggled to define Porzingis’ role in clutch moments.

Porzingis recognizes his need to better prepare himself for those moments.

One could argue that Porzingis should’ve been on the floor for the sake of his development. He was kept out of many late-game situations, however, and that’s something that he needs to change.

During his exit interview, Porzingis outlined his vision for being able to play center during the fourth quarter.

"“I wanna be the guy who can be, last quarter on the court as the 5 man. And be able to guard everybody and switch on everybody. That’s how basketball is these days.”"

That’s exactly how the Knicks plan to use him.

Placing Porzingis at center during the fourth quarter would help the Knicks on both ends of the floor. His offensive versatility would take opposing centers out of their element defensively, and his shot-blocking prowess could anchor the Knicks’ defense.

For what it’s worth, Porzingis ranked No. 8 in the NBA in blocks per game in 2015-16, and held opponents to 47.7 percent shooting at the rim.

Porzingis’ length and athleticism are matched by his instincts as a shot-blocker. He has room to improve in his pick-and-roll defense, and he must be assertive offensively, but he has the tools to thrive in both regards.

Porzingis has this improvement in his offseason crosshairs.

Next: No. 2