1. Kristaps Porzingis
Over the course of the first 18 games of the 2016-17 NBA regular season, Kristaps Porzingis was playing at an All-Star level. He’s improved in areas outside of his scoring in the five games since, but his scoring has regressed by a dramatic measure.
If the New York Knicks are going to pick up a fourth consecutive road victory, they’ll need Porzingis to play like himself again.
Over the past five games, Porzingis is averaging just 13.8 points in 34.2 minutes on a slash line of .313/.231/.765. He’s been rebounding and defending at significantly higher levels, but his shot has gone ice cold.
During those five outings, Porzingis shot 2-of-12, 6-of-18, 6-of-16, 5-of-15, and 6-of-19 from the field.
Against the Lakers, the Knicks will need Porzingis to play more like himself and contribute at a high level. Carmelo Anthony will likely be the go-to scorer and Derrick Rose expects to be back in the lineup, but Porzingis’ ability to contribute 15-to-20 efficient points is critical to the flow of the offense.
The Knicks have improved defensively, but the Lakers have enough depth to give them fits, which is why the stars must shine.
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If the New York Knicks check the boxes on these five points of emphasis, they’ll secure a critical victory.