New York Knicks: Five Reasons Kristaps Porzingis Shouldn’t Be Traded

Mar 5, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) during warmups before a game against the Golden State Warriors at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 5, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) during warmups before a game against the Golden State Warriors at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Apr 2, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) drives against Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 2, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) drives against Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

4. Offensive Versatility

Whether or not you believe Kristaps Porzingis can be a No. 1 scoring option, it’s quite clear that he’s a gifted offensive player. His offensive skill set is well-rounded and versatile, as evidenced by the historic strides he’s already made.

If the New York Knicks were to trade Porzingis, the organization would be giving up on a mismatch nightmare who’s nowhere near his prime.

Through two seasons, the 7’3″ Porzingis has converted 193 3-point field goals. In 2016-17, he became the tallest player in NBA history to sink more than 100 3-point field goals in a single season, and did so while converting 35.7 percent of his attempts.

That alone makes Porzingis one of the most dynamic offensive players in NBA history, but it’s nowhere near the extent of his abilities.

At 7’3″, Porzingis has an uncanny ability to create off the bounce—both on the drive and in gaining separation for his jumper. He also has a crafty post game, which includes dream shakes, Dirk Nowitzki turnaround Js, and hook shots.

Porzingis still needs to polish his offensive skill set, but he’s as dynamic a young talent as one can find at his deep position.