New York Knicks: 5 players for Kristaps Porzingis to study

1. Tim Duncan

Dirk Nowitzki may be the player whom Kristaps Porzingis is most commonly compared to, but it’s Tim Duncan whom he should attempt to emulate. Few rivaled Duncan’s fundamental polish, and even fewer played in such a methodical manner.

As Porzingis attempts to anchor the Knicks’ efforts on both ends of the floor, no player can set a better example of how to lead both on and off the court than Duncan.

At 7’3″, Porzingis’ flashy finishes are more of a luxury than a necessity. He, like Duncan, can develop go-to shots from the low block, mid post, and high post, thus balancing out the three-ball that adds an even stronger element to his game.

Moreover, Porzingis can develop a style of play that’s not only physically forgiving, but more effective and efficient than the highlight reel approach.

Defensively, Duncan’s timing bordered on being impeccable. He boxed out for rebounds, rarely left his feet on pump fakes, and understood that his greatest value was under the basket, even if he could provide other contributions in spot situations.

Porzingis has all of the tools to defend like Kevin Garnett and score like Dirk Nowitzki, but it’s Duncan who can show him how to simplify the game.

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The New York Knicks are fortunate to have a student of the game like Kristaps Porzingis leading the charge. These five legends could help shape a brighter future.