New York Knicks: 5 Upside Comparisons For Kristaps Porzingis

Arvydas Sabonis

Years Played (NBA): 1995 to 2001, 2002-03
Position: Center
Career Averages: 24.2 MPG, 12.0 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 1.6 ORPG, 2.1 APG, 1.1 BPG, 0.8 SPG
Career Statistics: 5,629 points, 3,436 rebounds, 734 offensive rebounds, 964 assists, 494 blocks, 370 steals

There’s a compelling case to be made that Arvydas Sabonis is the greatest European big man of all-time. He only played seven seasons in the NBA, but before he made the jump, he was regarded as the best player not in the Association.

A 7’3″ big man who could play from the post, was a brilliant passer, and could shoot the 3-ball with consistency, Sabonis was everything that Kristaps Porzingis is attempting to become.

Sabonis was heavier than Porzingis, but he ranks amongst the most skilled big men who have ever played the game. His passing ability from the post was unparalleled and his range as a shooter made him an all-time force of nature.

Sabonis was also an intimidating defensive player at his peak, using his size and length to overwhelm the opposition.

Porzingis doesn’t have the same body as Sabonis, but the height and basic skill set are almost identical. Sabonis mastered his craft, which is the process that Porzingis is currently attempting to complete.

If Porzingis can become as polished as Sabonis, his game could lead to unprecedented results in the modern NBA era.