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New York Knicks: Players Who Stepped Up Against Boston Celtics

ByMaxwell Ogden|
Oct 15, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) goes up for a shot against Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley (0) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. The Celtics won 119-107. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) goes up for a shot against Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley (0) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. The Celtics won 119-107. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports
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Willy Hernangomez

The race for the role of backup center is being statistically dominated by rookie big man Willy Hernangomez. The New York Knicks landed Hernangomez at the 2015 NBA Draft and watched intently as he spent 2015-16 with Real Madrid of Spains’ Liga ACB.

Hernangomez continued what’s been a productive and intriguing jump to the NBA with a double-double against the Boston Celtics.

Hernangomez had his first big performance of the 2016 NBA preseason when he posted 12 points, four rebounds, and two assists in 20 minutes against the Brooklyn Nets. He flashed an even greater degree of his upside against Boston.

Hernangomez recorded 12 points, 12 rebounds, five offensive boards, and an assist in 24 tremendous minutes against the Celtics.

Hernangomez has the potential to start for the Knicks, and his familiarity with close friend Kristaps Porzingis certainly bodes well for him. Hernangomez continues to show that he’s more than just Porzingis’ friend, however, as he’s thriving individually.

It’s only the preseason, but Hernangomez’s tenacity on the boards suggests that this could be the first of many double-doubles in the NBA.

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