National Basketball Association

New York Knicks: Kristaps Porzingis' Hot Start In Fantasy Basketball

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Three weeks into the 2016-17 NBA season, Kristaps Porzingis has established himself as one of the top big men in both the NBA and fantasy basketball.

Kristaps Porzingis’ strong play during the first nine games is a major reason why the New York Knicks were able to win three games so far. At the same time, his strong play has helped fantasy owners who were able to grab him in their respective drafts.

Many believed he was going to have an impressive sophomore season, but no one could predict how impressive his season was going to be.

While the sample size is small, Porzingis is having a monster second season. Compared to last season, Porzingis has improved in nearly every offensive category. He is averaging 18.8 points, 6.3 rebounds,and 1.3 blocks while owning a slash line of .480/.396/.750.

While the free throw percentage is something that will improve as the season progresses, getting to the charity stripe is not a problem as he averages 4.4 free throws per game.

March 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) controls the ball against Los Angeles Clippers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

What makes Porzingis so important to any fantasy team is his ability to be a quality source of rebounds, points, blocks, and 3-point field goals.

Last season, the only players to average at least 13.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.0 3-point field goal, and 1.0 block were DeMarcus Cousins, Kevin Durant, Draymond Green, Al Horford, and Porzingis.

Porzingis makes a valuable trade piece to fill a position that an owner’s team lacks quality play in.

For instance, a Porzingis for Andrew Wiggins trade would be able to provide a Porzingis owner quality play at the shooting guard position in fantasy (Wiggins is an excellent source for scoring and is a quality source for steals).

If Porzingis continues to play like this, he will be a second or third-round target for the next few years.