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New York Knicks: Who Must Step Up In Wake Of Lance Thomas Injury?

By Maxwell Ogden

Oct 8, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Lance Thomas (42) shoots over Brooklyn Nets guard Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (24) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Lance Thomas (42) shoots over Brooklyn Nets guard Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (24) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 6, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) reacts after fouling out of the game during the fourth quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at BMO Harris Bradley Center. New York won 116-111. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 6, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) reacts after fouling out of the game during the fourth quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at BMO Harris Bradley Center. New York won 116-111. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Kristaps Porzingis

The New York Knicks have been able to depend upon Kristaps Porzingis for consistent energy and effort on defense. One could very easily argue that he’s been the Knicks’ most reliable player on the defensive end of the floor.

Lance Thomas has filled in as Porzingis’ backup at power forward, which means the starter will need to step up.

Porzingis is currently averaging 19.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.7 offensive boards, 1.4 assists, 2.0 blocks, 0.8 steals, and 2.1 3-point field goals made in 34.1 minutes per game. He’s done so on an efficient slash line of .449/.402/.789.

Unfortunately, Porzingis is currently battling a sore achilles tendon that’s both limited his availability and hindered his efforts on the court.

Porzingis has missed six of the Knicks’ past 10 games and struggled in his two most recent appearances. He shot 3-of-13 from the field against the New Orleans Pelicans and 3-of-10 against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Porzingis is low on this list because of the injury, but once he’s healthy, he must help the Knicks stabilize the defense.

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