New York Knicks: Kyle O’Quinn Falling Behind in Backup Center Race

After three preseason games, who’s currently leading the New York Knicks’ three-man race for backup center minutes behindJoakim Noah?

We all expected Kyle O’Quinn to improve in his second year with theNew York Knicks, but he’s yet to stand out through three preseason games.

According toNew York Daily Newsreporter Stefan Bondy, head coachJeff Hornacekdepicted the backup center position as a spot up for grabs:

Kyle O’Quinn

O’Quinn looks like any random fringe player looking for a role on the roster. Where are his notable contributions? After snagging nine rebounds in the preseason opener against the Houston Rockets, he disappeared on the court.

One or two field goals and two or three rebounds per game won’t solidify the veteran’s minutes on this revamped roster. He must show more on both ends of the court to earn strong consideration for significant time behind Joakim Noah, who will likely play 25-30 minutes in the upcoming season.

O’Quinn’s competitors for minutes behind Noah put their assets on full display in at least one game over the past week.

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Willy Hernangomez

Rookie Willy Hernangomez displayed unique mobility and scoring capabilities for a 6’11” center against the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday. He’s nifty around the basket and flashed his move set in the post as a viable scorer:

Hernangomez possesses the potential to put up significant points with more time on the court. Despite his five turnovers and a more passive game against the Washington Wizards, he delivered three assists, which shows the ability to move the ball in a half-court triangle offense.

In fairness, Hornacek gave Hernangomez the most minutes (54) among the three potential backup centers. Fortunately, it shows the team’s willingness to take an extended look at a unique talent as opposed to handing the spot to O’Quinn.

Marshall Plumlee

The Duke product adds significant grit to the roster. Early in the second game against the Nets, Marshall Plumlee dealt a hard foul toTrevor Booker, sending him to the floor with authority. The play symbolized the rookie’s toughness in the paint, no easy layups.

Hornacek and commentators lauded Plumlee for his communication as a defender and centerpiece in the lineup. When listening closely to the telecast, you can hear him barking directions and making adjustments on the defensive end. It’s a welcomed trait needed for a roster building chemistry. His vocal manner most resembles Noah in the starting lineup.

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Typically, Marshall won’t score a lot of points. Nonetheless, he developed a rapport with backup point guardBrandon Jenningsover the past few games. The rookie center benefitted from playing in the paint and running toward the hoop as a finisher on the offensive end.

With only one year guaranteed on his deal, Marshall fights for a long-term stay in New York. Due to his rugged defensive specialty, he should be considered the leading candidate for the primary backup center position within the second unit.

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