New York Knicks: Five Reasons For Optimism Following 2016-17

3. Willy Hernangomez’s Upside

No individual player did more to earn the respect of New York Knicks fans in 2016-17 than Willy Hernangomez. The rookie center spent the early months of the season riding the pine, but broke out once the opportunity arose for him to play more minutes.

At 22 years of age, Hernangomez already looks the part of a starting-caliber center who can help pull the Knicks out of their current predicament.

In 72 games played, Hernangomez averaged 8.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.4 offensive rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 18.4 minutes per game. He did so on efficient shooting marks of 52.9 percent from the field and 72.8 percent from the free throw line.

Perhaps most impressively, his numbers translate to 17.7 points, 15.2 rebounds, 5.1 offensive rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks per 36 minutes.

Beyond the statistics, Hernangomez was a force of nature on the boards and an energetic presence on defense. He still needs polish, but he competes on a nightly basis and has an alluring combination of post moves that enable him to score in isolation.

The Knicks may not have many positions solidified, but Hernangomez has shown all the signs of being the team’s center of the future.