New York Knicks: Players who need more playing time
Luke Kornet
Position: Center
Age: 22 (7/15/1995)
Slash Line (G League): .484/.441/.800
Season Averages (G League): 32.1 MPG, 15.9 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 1.2 ORPG, 2.4 APG, 1.5 BPG, 2.6 3PM
As previously alluded to, the New York Knicks are facing the impossible task of replacing Kristaps Porzingis in the rotation. While doing so will inevitably prove fruitless, the Knicks have a chance to find his ideal backup during the 2017-18 regular season.
Between his time in the G League and his stellar NBA debut, Kornet has flashed the potential to be the type of 3-and-D big who could provide a unique sense of continuity.
Kornet finished his college career as the NCAA’s all-time leader in three-point field goals made by a player who stands at 7’0″ or taller. His success has translated well to the G League, where he made an average of 2.6 three-point field goals made per game on 44.1 percent shooting.
Kornet is also an excellent shot-blocker, as evidenced by the stellar showing he put forth during his first career NBA game on Feb. 8.
Luke Kornet blocks a 4th shot, which means he becomes the first and only player in NBA history at least 4 blocks and three 3-pointers in his first career game.
— Tommy Beer (@TommyBeer) February 9, 2018
He also had 11 points and 10 boards. He’s the first Knick rookie w/ a double-double in debut since John Wallace in 1996
That’s as strong of a debut as one could ask for.
It’s within the realm of possibility that Kornet’s stellar debut was nothing more than a mirage. If he maintains his production and overall level of play throughout the remainder of the 2017-18 season, however, the Knicks could find a long-term place for him in the rotation.
Few players stand at 7’0″ or taller, shoot the three-ball well, and block shots at a high level. Kornet would give the Knicks two big men who could do exactly that.