Maurice Daly Ndour
Maurice Daly Ndour received a rare opportunity to play big minutes during what was one of the team’s best showings of the season. The New York Knicks rookie played upwards of 20 minutes for the first time in his NBA career.
Ndour made the most of his time on the court by playing a powerful and influential game against one of the Knicks’ most bitter rivals.
Ndour finished the win over the Bulls with 13 points, 12 rebounds, four offensive rebounds, one assists, two steals, and one block in 33 minutes of play. He shot 5-of-9 from the field and 3-of-5 from the free throw line in an efficient and well-rounded performance.
Perhaps most significantly—from an individual perspective, at least—Ndour recorded his first career-double-double in the first game he received upwards of 20 minutes.
Ndour finished with a +/- of +12, which is a testament to how important he was to the Knicks’ success. Beyond the numbers, he provided a critical measure of energy and raw tenacity in his first career NBA-level start.
Kristaps Porzingis and Willy Hernangomez may be the starters of the future, but Ndour has the potential to be a high-level role player for years to come.