Kristaps Porzingis
The Phoenix Suns pulled no punches with New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis. Porzingis was fouled hard, thrown to the ground, and attacked defensively, but he refused to back down from this challenge.
With both Carmelo Anthony and Derrick Rose going ice cold, Porzingis stepped up with another stellar performance in the face of adversity.
Porzingis overcame the Suns’ physicality to record 34 points, eight rebounds, one offensive board, three blocks, and three steals in 42 minutes. He shot 12-of-23 from the field, 4-of-4 from beyond the arc, and 6-of-7 from the free throw line.
Porzingis even defended himself and displayed his toughness and resilience when he was thrown to the ground in what was a clearly dirty play.
.@kporzee has scored 13 points since the scuffle with Chriss in the 3Q. #Knicks #NYKvsPHX
— Jonah Ballow (@jonahballow) December 14, 2016
That’s the type of reaction that sends a message to opponents who think they can get away with those type of actions.
Porzingis is developing into a legitimate star in just his second season in the NBA. He’s addressing his flaws one-by-one, playing with heart, and proving to be far more than just a flash in the pan who caught lightning in a bottle.
When people talk about the future of the NBA, it’s impossible to leave Porzingis off of the list. He’s revolutionizing the NBA.
Must Read: 5 reasons Phil Jackson won't leave in 2016-17.
Had Porzingis not fouled out on a debatable call, the Knicks may have won this game on the strength of his performance alone.