New York Knicks: 5 Things To Watch For During Preseason

Kristaps Porzingis Development

One of the biggest surprises from last season was the play of Kristaps Porzingis. Everyone knew that he has talent; no one knew he was that far along in his development. Porzingis was selected with the thought of being a long-term project. While he has a lot of growth left until he hits his ceiling, he is much further along that anyone could have guessed.

Porzingis had a strong rookie season, finishing second in the Rookie of the Year voting. He averaged 14.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.9 blocks per game. No one could have predicted him putting up numbers like that as a rookie. But since he did, there will now be heightened expectations for his sophomore season.

For the Knicks to take that step forward, Porzingis will have to hit that next step in his development. So far during the offseason, it looks like he is going to do it. Hornacek spoke highly of the future face of the franchise, saying that his jump shot looks much improved. It is a weapon Hornacek has to be salivating about using, as Porzingis is a matchup nightmare all of the court.

Hornacek also spoke about the strength that Porzingis has added. Getting stronger was a point of emphasis this offseason for him, and Hornacek believes that it is already paying dividends. The added strength should help Porzingis bang inside, as his height already gives him an advantage; now he has the size to finish inside as well.

The Knicks are hoping that Porzingis takes another leap this season, and he looks well on his way to doing it thus far in camp.