National Basketball Association

New York Knicks: Kristaps Porzingis Needs To Be More Assertive

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

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The New York Knicks are building the future of the organization around Kristaps Porzingis, so why has he become an offensive afterthought?

We all know the story by now. When the New York Knicks selected Kristaps Porzingis at No. 4 overall in the 2015 NBA Draft, media members tore Phil Jackson to shreds with accusations of ignorance and incompetence.

Just one season into Porzingis’ NBA career, he’s silenced his critics. So why isn’t he getting the ball?

Through four games, Porzingis is averaging 14.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.8 blocks, and 1.5 3-point field goals made in 31.8 minutes of action per game. He put up just four shots against the Houston Rockets, however, which has resulted in the current conversation.

According to Marc Berman of The New York Post, coach Hornacek acknowledged that the Knicks have failed to get Porzingis the ball in ideal situations.

Moving forward, the Knicks must make a more conscious effort to get Porzingis involved offensively.

At 7’3″, Porzingis has a size advantage against virtually all of his opponents. The Knicks haven’t looked to exploit that advantage, however, and a somewhat even amount of blame could be thrown Porzingis’ way.

Both Porzingis and his teammates need to make sure that he takes advantage of the clear points of leverage that he holds over a vast majority of his opponents.

Taking advantage of Porzingis’ unique combination of skill and size could save the Knicks’ season.

Through four games, Porzingis has a usage percentage of just 20.1 percent. By comparison, Carmelo Anthony checks in at 30.6 percent, Derrick Rose is at 26.8 percent, and Brandon Jennings has registered a mark of 21.7 percent.

There’s nothing wrong with Anthony, Rose, and Jennings receiving a significant number of touches and shot attempts, but the Knicks must run more plays for Porzingis.

Porzingis needs more opportunities to score and Hornacek knows it. The results need to show sooner than later.

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