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New York Knicks: Who Stepped Up Against The Portland Trail Blazers?

By Maxwell Ogden

Nov 22, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks guard Brandon Jennings (3) reacts during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks guard Brandon Jennings (3) reacts during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 22, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) drives to the basket past Portland Trail Blazers forward Meyers Leonard (11) during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) drives to the basket past Portland Trail Blazers forward Meyers Leonard (11) during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

Willy Hernangomez

It seems as though Willy Hernangomez flashes his starting-caliber potential every other game for the New York Knicks. He’s still learning how to pace himself through an NBA game, but the flashes of brilliance have been exactly that: brilliant.

Though he struggled early against the Portland Trail Blazers, Hernangomez proved to be resilient in the face of adversity.

Hernangomez posted a strong stat line with nine points and four rebounds in 21 minutes off the bench. He shot 4-of-5 from the field, made a free throw, had a +/- of +9, and displayed great chemistry with both Brandon Jennings and Derrick Rose.

It was far from a perfect performance, but the fact that Hernangomez feels comfortable with both point guards is an encouraging sign.

Hernangomez overcame a number of early turnovers to bounce back and provide the Knicks with massive production in the second half. He worked with and without the ball, operating through the pick and roll and finishing at the rim.

If Hernangomez can continue to play with this level of energy and aggressiveness, the Knicks will have a consistent backup option at center in 2016-17.

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