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

2. Kristaps Porzingis’ Continued Development

If you ask the diehard Carmelo Anthony fans who are unhappy with his current situation, some will tell you that Kristaps Porzingis is overrated. That’s likely in response to the fact that Porzingis is gradually replacing Anthony as the franchise player.

The reality is that the New York Knicks are developing Porzingis at a faster pace than is readily acknowledged, and it’s vital to contextualize any criticism one may have.

Porzingis appeared in 66 of a possible 82 games, but the outings he missed were often the result of caution. There was no reason for him to appear in the final four games of the season, just as it would have been irrational to rush him back from an early achilles injury.

Although it may be fair to be concerned about his health and rebounding woes, it’s also clear as day that Porzingis has made progress on the court.

Porzingis struggled on defense, but he was simultaneously protecting the rim, defending the pick and roll, and closing out on shooters. That’s a massive transition from rookie rim protector to attempting to be Kevin Garnett.

Offensively, he wasn’t as effective as an interior scorer, but his outside shot and handles became significantly stronger. He also became the only player in Knicks history to record at least 100 3-point field goals and 100 blocks in the same season.

For every detraction, there’s the context: Porzingis expanded his game by leaps and bounds in 2016-17, and although it wasn’t all smooth sailing, the progress was tremendous.