New York Knicks: Pros, Cons Of Kristaps Porzingis Playing Center

Con: Wear And Tear

The cautionary tale for why the New York Knicks shouldn’t yet move Kristaps Porzingis to center is New Orleans Pelicans star Anthony Davis. Davis played 95 percent of his minutes at power forward as a rookie, but he’s seen a near even share of his minutes at center over the past four seasons.

During that time, Davis has balanced being one of the best players in the NBA with being forced to overcome a consistent string of injuries.

For Porzingis, he’s still filling out his upper and lower body, which puts him at risk of injury against the more bruising big men in the NBA. Those injuries would likely be of the nature that Davis has endured: back, shoulder, and even minor knee issues.

Though they generally haven’t been severe or career-threatening injuries, Davis’ laundry list of ailments offers insight into why thin players rarely play the 5 until they fill out.

Due to this, it stands to reason that Willy Hernangomez and Kyle O’Quinn are the safer options at center. They’re built in a manner that’s suited more for the 5 than the 4, whereas Porzingis is still more physically suited for a role at power forward.

Though there are more pros than cons, this specific drawback is reason enough to postpone Porzingis’ full-time move to center.