New York Knicks: Nerlens Noel Stats Projection 2021-22
- 61 Games Played
- 18.1 Minutes Per Game
- 4.3 Points Per Game
- 0.5 Assists Per Game
- 1.5 Blocks Per Game
- 0.9 Steals Per Game
- 58.0% FG %
- 0% 3p FG%
- 72.9% FT %
I think the New York Knicks realized how valuable it is to have a legitimate backup center who can defend the rim and that’s why they went out and re-signed Nerlens Noel.
Noel played so well in Mitchell Robinson’s absence last season that debates even sprung up about how he may be more effective as a starter. Hopefully, those arguments died in the playoffs.
The thing with Noel is that he’s an incredible asset as the team’s backup — he’s someone who thrives as a last line of defense as a rim protector. As a starter, he gets overwhelmed by bigger players, but that’s ok because New York will hopefully have Robinson back to full health by the start of the season.
The Knicks’ second unit is much more offensive-minded and having Nerlens Noel there to defend the rim is a valuable asset on the bench.
His shot-blocking ability is always going to prove to be valuable, and should Robinson get injured, it’s nice to know the team has someone in Noel who can take on a lot of defensive responsibility. Even at just over 18 minutes per game, Noel is going to post impressive totals in blocks and steals.