New York Knicks: Who stepped up against the Houston Rockets?

Kyle O’Quinn

With Enes Kanter sidelined by a back injury, Kyle O’Quinn posted an unexpected dud when he received the rare opportunity to start against the Atlanta Hawks. A game later, O’Quinn was out for vengeance against Clint Capela and the Houston Rockets.

The New York Knicks may have lost, but after a string of subpar performances, O’Quinn finally got back to what’s been working for him—and then some.

O’Quinn posted season-highs in both scoring and rebounding, tallying 20 points and 15 boards in just 26 minutes of action. He pulled down two offensive rebounds, distributed four assists, and racked up two blocks and a steal on defense.

Coupled with efficient shooting performances at 7-of-9 from the field and 6-of-8 from the free throw line, O’Quinn had himself quite a game.

Throw in a +/- of +2 in a 15-point loss, and it’s clear that O’Quinn isn’t the player to blame for the loss. Some of his contributions arrived later than they were needed, but this was the type of performance that should help the 27-year-old right the ship.

O’Quinn hasn’t played like himself during the month of November. This performance could be the catalyst to an individual turnaround that changes the pace of New York’s season.

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