New York Knicks: Players Who Stepped Up Against Brooklyn Nets

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Oct 8, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) reacts after scoring a basket against the Brooklyn Nets during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

Kristaps Porzingis

Position: Power Forward
Minutes Played: 19
Stat Line: 12 points, 6 rebounds, 1 offensive rebound, 1 assist, 1 block, 4/9 FG, 0/1 3PT, 4/4 FT
+/-: +9

After torching the Houston Rockets for 22 points in his preseason debut, the spotlight was shining on Kristaps Porzingis. Though he wasn’t as productive against the Brooklyn Nets, Porzingis showed significant signs of development.

Porzingis did an outstanding job of moving without the ball, as displayed in both transition and the half court.

Porzingis recorded 12 points, six rebounds, one offensive board, one assist, and a block in 19 minutes of action. He shot 4-of-9 from the field, missed a 3-point field goal attempt, and hit all four of his free throws.

Beyond the numbers, however, was the maturity that Porzingis showed when working without the ball on offense.

Carmelo Anthony and Brandon Jennings set him up beautifully, but Porzingis knew exactly where to be. He ran the floor at the perfect angles, knew exactly how to dive to the basket, and showed no qualms about entering the teeth of Brooklyn’s defense.

Porzingis has already won the masses over. Games like this are reminders of how great he truly could be.

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