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New York Knicks: Who Stepped Up Against The Los Angeles Lakers?

By Maxwell Ogden

December 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) shoots against the defense of Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (1) during the first half 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) shoots against the defense of Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (1) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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December 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Thomas Robinson (15) controls the ball against New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
December 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Thomas Robinson (15) controls the ball against New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Willy Hernangomez

The New York Knicks were dealt unfortunate news when Kyle O’Quinn was ruled out with a sprained ankle. O’Quinn was breaking out during the Knicks’ recent string of success, but was unable to suit up against the Los Angeles Lakers.

With O’Quinn absent and the Knicks in need of a backup center to contribute in relief of Joakim Noah, Willy Hernangomez answered the call.

Hernangomez finished with six points, 12 rebounds, four offensive boards, one assist, two blocks, and a steal in 20 minutes of action against the Lakers. He shot just 3-of-8 from the field, but stepped up with similar contributions to what O’Quinn provided in recent games.

Wherever a loose ball surfaced, Hernangomez was there to make a play for it and help the Knicks control the pace.

Hernangomez has played quite well during his rookie season. He gained invaluable professional experience in Spain’s vaunted Liga ACB, but playing in the Association—let alone for the Knicks—is another animal entirely.

Hernangomez needs to avoid silly fouls and move his feet better when defending the pick and roll, but he’s proving to be an NBA-caliber player.

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