New York Knicks: Who Stepped Up Against The Houston Rockets?

2 of 7

Dec 31, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets forward Trevor Ariza (1) has an inside shot blocked by New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports /

Willy Hernangomez

The New York Knicks have invested four-year contracts in three centers: Willy Hernangomez, Joakim Noah, and Kyle O’Quinn. With O’Quinn sidelined by an injury, Hernangomez received the opportunity step up against the Houston Rockets.

Though Hernangomez struggled as a scorer, he made a powerful mark on the game by dominating the boards during his time on the court.

Hernangomez posted two points, 10 rebounds, three offensive boards, and one block in 19 minutes of action. He did so on 1-of-5 shooting from the field and a 1-of-2 mark at the free throw line, but his game was about more than the shooting marks.

Hernangomez’s effort and tenacity was one of the primary reasons for New York’s strong start to the 2016-17 regular season.

Hernangomez posted a plus-minus of +4, which tied for the second-best mark on the team. He’s now recorded at least 10 points or 10 rebounds in five different games during the month of December.

Hernangomez is still a work in progress on both ends of the floor, but he’s already established himself as quite the rebounder.

Home/Knicks News