New York Knicks: Kristaps Porzingis learning from experiences
New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis has become one of the most productive post players in the NBA. He expounded upon his latest changes.
The New York Knicks have committed their resources to building around franchise player Kristaps Porzingis. That isn’t only true on the defensive end of the floor, but on offense, as well, where The Unicorn is in the midst of a career-year.
As opposing defenses search for ways to contain Porzingis, they’ve found one that bends the rules: Hitting the 7’3″ anomaly on the elbow.
Porzingis has spoken at length about the issues he’s encountered as he attempts to overcome the new defenses he’s facing. In response to the opposition’s tendency to hit him on the elbow, he’s changing his approach and making quicker decisions.
According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, Porzingis is addressing his tendency to hold the ball for too long by learning to be more decisive when the ball comes his way.
"“I’m learning how to make the right pass when I get the ball – how to make the right pass or make the right play. I’ve been getting better at that but also still, I have moments when I’m too stagnant. Whether I should drive by the guy and make something (happen) – I’m just kind of looking for, waiting for the help to come and then try to make a play. But I think I did a better job this last game. As soon as I got the ball I tried to make a move or do something and be aggressive right away.”"
This is a forced development, in some regards, but it’s also a lesson that Porzingis needed to learn at some point in his career.
If this narrative and commentary sounds familiar, then it’s likely because something similar transpired with Carmelo Anthony in 2016-17. Team president Phil Jackson used a questionable platform to express the concern, but his message was the same: Anthony needed to make quicker decisions.
Thankfully, Porzingis is realizing the same for himself, thus making it easier for head coach Jeff Hornacek to build his offense around the 7’3″ phenom.
An unselfish approach would simplify the equation for Hornacek, even more so than the fact that Porzingis is taller than every player who attempts to defend him.
It generally takes longer than three seasons for players to embrace the need to pass out of double teams instead of forcing the issue. It’s not a matter of if Porzingis or any other star is capable of scoring, but instead acknowledging the fact that every double team requires the help defender to leave their man.
Porzingis being able to identify the open man and find him with an accurate pass will inevitably create an efficient shot, whether via his assist or an extra pass.
Must Read: Ranking Kristaps Porzingis' best games of 2017
With Kristaps Porzingis becoming a more willing passer and a more decisive scorer, the New York Knicks should be even more efficient on offense moving forward.