New York Knicks: Who stepped up in long awaited win over Hawks?

DeAndre Jordan

Stat Line: 10 points, 13 rebounds, 1 steal, 3 blocks, 4-for-4 shooting
Season Slash Line (Prior to Game): .650/—/.696
Season Averages (Prior to Game):11.1 PPG, 13.4 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.0 BPG

DeAndre Jordan may take a backseat to Robinson in priority, but the veteran center has looked apt since joining the New York Knicks on Jan. 31. With double-doubles galore and some semblance of his play with the Los Angeles Clippers earlier in the 2010s, he’s a fine presence for this team to have.

Against the Hawks, in 28 minutes, Jordan had 10 points, 13 rebounds, one steal and three blocks, combining for seven total swats with Robinson. They make for a potent 1-2 punch at the five, providing the rim protection Enes Kanter never gave head coach David Fizdale’s lineups.

As the season wanes, Jordan’s starts may wane. Robinson is clearly the future at center. While the 30 year old still plays well, his franchise future is in question beyond April.

If the front office retains Jordan, it certainly won’t be on $22.9 million. If superstars join the Knicks — maybe Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving — does he return on a mid-level exception?

That’s far down the road, and there are still 24 games left to flesh everything out. Jordan is an interesting veteran piece, nonetheless, and someone for the Knicks to consider depending on how their offseason plans shake out.