New York Knicks: Five reasons to love the Mario Hezonja signing

ORLANDO, FL - DECEMBER 15: Mario Hezonja #8 of the Orlando Magic shoots the ball against the Portland Trail Blazers on December 15, 2017 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 9: Mario Hezonja #8 of the Orlando Magic goes to the basket against the Atlanta Hawks on December 9, 2017 at Philips Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Flashes Of Offensive Brilliance

Mario Hezonja has every tool to be a consistent and efficient scorer. He’s an athletic 6’8″ forward who can play both the 3 and the 4-spot, drive against overzealous defenders, and knock down open shots from beyond the arc.

Hezonja may never live up to the Tracy McGrady hype, but he can be a quality offensive player—and he showcased that very potential in 2017-18.

Hezonja set career highs in points per game (9.6) and points per 36 minutes (15.7) in 2017-18. On a per 36 basis, he also set career-best marks in two-point field goals made (4.0), three-point field goals made (2.0), free throws made (1.9), and free throws attempted (2.3).

Include the fact that Hezonja averaged just 1.9 turnovers per 36 minutes—the lowest mark of his career—and the statistical improvement was thorough.

Furthermore, Hezonja had six games with at least 20 points, and 37 games with at least 10 points. In comparison, he produced one 20-point game and 29 outings with at least 10 points during the 2015-16 and 2016-17 seasons—combined.

Paired with the fact he produced a positive number in Offensive Win Shares for the first time in his NBA career, the 6’8″ Hezonja appears to be nearing a breakthrough.

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