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New York Knicks: What We Learned From Los Angeles Lakers Game

By Maxwell Ogden

December 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6), guard Derrick Rose (25), forward Carmelo Anthony (7) and guard Courtney Lee (5) react during the 118-112 victory against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
December 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6), guard Derrick Rose (25), forward Carmelo Anthony (7) and guard Courtney Lee (5) react during the 118-112 victory against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 30, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) during a game at Target Center. The Knicks defeated the Timberwolves 106-104. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 30, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) during a game at Target Center. The Knicks defeated the Timberwolves 106-104. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

4. There’s A Surplus At Center

The New York Knicks will continue to start Joakim Noah at center for his leadership, rebounding, facilitating, and defensive prowess. He’s developing chemistry with his fellow starters and has looked the part of a resurgent force in recent games.

Behind Noah, the Knicks have an issue that many teams would love to have in that there are multiple players on the roster who are thriving at center.

Kyle O’Quinn has been breaking out over the past few weeks with averages of 7.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.4 blocks in 20.3 minutes over the previous 10 games. Unfortuantely, O’Quinn was sidelined by an ankle injury when New York traveled to Los Angeles.

Rookie center Willy Hernangomez stepped up in his absence, recording six points, 12 rebounds, two blocks, and a steal in 20 minutes.

Noah has been rather enigmatic in 2016-17, but he’s beginning to find his form. Though the Knicks may not discover a star as soon as this season, there are three centers who can all make significant contributions.

If head coach Jeff Hornacek plays his rotations right, that trio of centers—and lest we forget, O’Quinn can play the 4—could help shape New York’s season.

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