New York Knicks: 5 players Kyle O’Quinn should study

BOSTON, MA - JANUARY 18: Kyle O'Quinn #9 of the New York Knicks is introduced before a game against the Boston Celtics on January 18, 2017 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - JANUARY 18: Kyle O'Quinn #9 of the New York Knicks is introduced before a game against the Boston Celtics on January 18, 2017 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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BOSTON, MA – JANUARY 18: Kyle O’Quinn #9 of the New York Knicks is introduced before a game against the Boston Celtics on January 18, 2017 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA – JANUARY 18: Kyle O’Quinn #9 of the New York Knicks is introduced before a game against the Boston Celtics on January 18, 2017 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /

As Kyle O’Quinn enters the prime of his career, he’s still in the process of finding his identity. Here are five players whom the New York Knicks big man can study for guidance.


After years of attempting to win with a failing formula, the New York Knicks are embracing a true and thorough rebuild. Although it hasn’t yet abandoned the pursuit of the postseason, New York is embracing a genuine youth movement.

While he may not be one of the five projected starters, Kyle O’Quinn appears to be one of the key contributors to the Knicks’ vision for the 2017-18 season.

O’Quinn is coming off of the best season of his NBA career. He recorded averages of 6.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.0 offensive rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.3 blocks in just 15.6 minutes per game. He shot 52.1 percent from the field and 77.1 percent from the free throw line.

O’Quinn’s season averages translated to marks of 14.5 points, 12.9 rebounds, 4.3 offensive rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 3.0 blocks per 36 minutes.

For as impressive as those numbers may be, O’Quinn was unable to secure a consistent role in 2016-17. The upside is undeniable, as O’Quinn stands at 6’10” with a near 7’5″ wingspan, a powerful frame, and the skill set to provide two-way value.

As Kyle O’Quinn searches for ways to realize his true potential and thus solidify his place with the New York Knicks, the following five players could help him do so.

At 27 years of age, this is the perfect time for O’Quinn to learn from those who came before him.