New York Knicks: 5 players Willy Hernangomez should study

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SAN ANTONIO, TX – MARCH 25: Pau Gasol #16 of the San Antonio Spurs talks with Willy Hernangomez #14 of the New York Knicks after the game on March 25, 2017 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photos by Mark Sobhani/NBAE via Getty Images) /

New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez will face high expectations in 2017-18. Which players have created the blueprint for Hernangomez’s success?

As Kristaps Porzingis prepares to become the face of the New York Knicks, Willy Hernangomez is looking the part of the perfect interior complement. Hernangomez only has one NBA season under his belt, but he’s already become one of the most promising young big men in the Association.

In order for Hernangomez to maximize his potential and become the star that he’s capable of being, however, the pursuit of improvement must be incessant.

Hernangomez is preparing for a 2017-18 season that projects to provide him with greater opportunities—and, in turn, greater responsibilities. He became one of Jeff Hornacek’s most trusted players late in 2016-17, and he should see even more playing time come October.

Optimism exists that he’ll justify the uptick in minutes, as Hernangomez was one of the few players on the roster whose effort was never questioned by the fans, media, or coaching staff.

Hernangomez finished his rookie season with averages of 8.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.4 offensive boards, and 1.3 assists in just 18.4 minutes per game. Those numbers translate to 16.0 points, 13.6 rebounds, 4.6 offensive rebounds, and 2.6 assists per 36 minutes.

The question is: Which players should Willy Hernangomez be studying as he tweaks his game in preparation for his second season with the New York Knicks?

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