New York Knicks: Pros And Cons Of Tanking The Rest Of 2016-17

Con: Kristaps Porzingis Needs Postseason Experience

As previously alluded to, the New York Knicks need to expose Kristaps Porzingis to the rigors of postseason basketball. It’s an entirely different environment that no player is ready for until they’re officially exposed to it.

Thus, while tanking may lead to the addition of another rising star to the roster, it would also deprive Porzingis of an opportunity to experience postseason basketball.

For all of the awe-inspiring moves that Porzingis may have in his arsenal, his most appealing strength is his competitive nature. He has a will to be great that’s endeared him to fans and players around the NBA.

Porzingis has made it public knowledge that he wants to bring a championship to New York, but that won’t be possible if he doesn’t even appear in the playoffs.

As previously alluded to, the Knicks have been unable to reach the playoffs on a consistent basis during the James Dolan era. The fact that such a streak has coincided with New York trading away its first-round draft picks has resulted in the current predicament.

Though a first-round exit may not be ideal, one could argue that exposing Porzingis to the postseason in any manner would be beneficial.