New York Knicks: Who Stepped Up Against The Brooklyn Nets?

Nov 9, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony (7) reacts after hitting a three point shot against the Brooklyn Nets during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony (7) reacts after hitting a three point shot against the Brooklyn Nets during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Oct 8, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Anthony Bennett (13) drives to the basket past New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Anthony Bennett (13) drives to the basket past New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

Willy Hernangomez

The New York Knicks received a glimpse of the future during the fourth quarter of the victory against the Brooklyn Nets. He hardly played prior to the fourth quarter, but stepped up in a major way during the final period.

With the Knicks leading by just one point entering the fourth quarter, Hernangomez took over as a scorer and guided New York to victory.

Hernangomez finished with 14 points, six rebounds, two offensive boards, two blocks, and one steal in 15 minutes. He shot 6-of-7 from the field and 2-of-2 from the free throw line with a +/- of +15 during the 14-point win.

Most importantly, Hernangomez scored all 14 of his points during the fourth quarter of New York’s victory.

Hernangomez did an excellent job during the preseason, but struggled to find court time during the first six games. He made quite the statement against Brooklyn, however, and appears to have thrown his name into the mix for the backup center role.

Hernangomez was as influential as any player on the roster in the Knicks securing a big home victory over Brooklyn.