New York Knicks: Kristaps Porzingis Is A Basketball Anomaly

Dec 20, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) reacts after hitting a three-point shot during the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) reacts after hitting a three-point shot during the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
4 of 6
Mar 26, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers small forward LeBron James (23) controls the ball against New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers small forward LeBron James (23) controls the ball against New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Rookie Season For The Ages

Being the tallest sharpshooter ever is reason enough to believe that Kristaps Porzingis deserves to be called unique. A a rookie, however, Porzingis proved to be far more than just a tall European player who could shoot the 3-ball.

In 2015-16, Porzingis became the first rookie in NBA history to record at least 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 100 blocks, and 75 3-point field goals made.

Porzingis recorded 1,028 points, 526 rebounds, 134 blocks, and 81 3-point field goals made as a rookie. For perspective, only two other players recorded at least 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 100 blocks, and 80 3-point field goals in 2015-16.

Those players were All-NBA Second Team honoree Draymond Green and All-Star big man Al Horford.

Porzingis’ versatility isn’t limited to being tall and shooting the 3-ball; he does just about everything at a high level. There are still areas in which he must improve, but his all-time rookie season set the stage for an all-time career.

Considering Porzingis was doing as a rookie what only All-Stars were able to do, his upside is clear and incredible.

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations