New York Knicks: 5 Burning Questions Following The Preseason

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Oct 8, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets center Brook Lopez (11) drives to the basket defended by New York Knicks center Marshall Plumlee (40) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

4. What Will Happen With The Rookie Big Men?

The New York Knicks will start Kristaps Porzingis at power forward and Joakim Noah at center. Though that duo may be the heart of the Knicks’ defense, it’s a pair of rookie centers who have captured the hearts of New York’s fans.

Willy Hernangomez and Marshall Plumlee have consistently drawn the praise of their teammates, coaches, and fans, but where do they fit?

Hernangomez and Plumlee were in a three-man race with Kyle O’Quinn to determine the backup center. Hernangomez and Plumlee started stronger than O’Quinn, but the veteran outperformed them during the final two games.

Only one can be the backup center, which warrants the question of how Hernangomez and Plumele will be utilized in 2016-17.

Hernangomez is a skilled offensive player with the most long-term upside of any of the three big men listed. Plumlee is a workhorse whose tenacity and underrated athleticism would provide a boost off the bench.

The NBA D-League is a possibility for one of the two, but it’d be more ideal for them to receive playing time on the main roster in 2016-17.

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