5. Kristaps Porzingis
The New York Knicks are trusting Kristaps Porzingis to make the necessary improvements to become the new face of the franchise. The process will take more time than some are irrationally expecting, but progress needs to be made on a yearly basis.
Both statistically and within the actual context of the game, Porzingis has made tremendous improvements to his already exceptional skill set.
Porzingis finished his rookie season with averages of 14.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.9 blocks, and 1.1 3-point field goals made in 28.3 minutes per game. Those numbers translate to marks of 18.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.4 blocks, and 1.4 3-point field goals made per game.
Through 30 games in 2016-17, Porzingis is averaging 20.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, 2.0 blocks, and 2.2 3-point field goals made per 36 minutes.
Porzingis’ offensive development has been profound and invaluable. He’s made 64 3-point field goals through 30 appearances in 2016-17 after making 81 in 72 games in 2015-16, and has added improved handles and increased confidence to his repertoire.
Despite an increase of 3.7 shot attempts per game, Porzingis has dramatically improved his slash line from .421/.333/.838 in 2015-16 to .455/.403/.789 in 2016-17.