New York Knicks: 5 Areas For Kristaps Porzingis To Improve

1. Strength & Athleticism

Kristaps Porzingis is one of the most physically imposing players in NBA history. Standing at 7’3″ with a reported 7’7″ wingspan, Porzingis has the size and length to be one of the most dominant forces in the Association.

The key to Porzingis maximizing his potential will be filling out his body and developing the muscle mass necessary to play on the low block.

Porzingis entered the NBA with a thin body at a concerning 220 pounds. He quickly added more than 10 pounds to his frame, which helped him excel during his rookie season.

During Porzingis’ exit interview, he stated that he’s aware of his need to add additional weight to his body and improve athletically.

"“No. 1 is getting stronger. But not only putting on weight and being big, but being more athletic. Quicker. Being able to guard smaller guys when we switch. So, it’s going to be a lot of work. Not only just putting on mass, but quickness. How I move, how I move my feet, how I run. That’s No. 1.”"

Maintaining his unique athletic ability will be the key to his adding muscle mass.

During his exit interview, Porzingis told reporters that he currently weighs 232 pounds, and is hoping to reach 245 by the start of next season. That’s a fair weight for an NBA power forward, and could permit Porzingis to play the 5.

Considering the long-term goal is to play Porzingis at both power forward and center, it stands to reason that gaining 10-to-13 pounds would be an excellent start.

The sooner Porzingis is able to spot minutes at the 5, the more dynamic the Knicks’ offense will be. There’s no need to rush with Robin Lopez on the roster, but Porzingis has the potential for positional versatility.

Porzingis is already significantly better than anyone expected him to be. I

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If he improves in these five areas, Porzingis can take the next step towards achieving his star potential.