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New York Knicks vs Charlotte Hornets: 5 Players To Watch In Home-And-Home

By Kenneth Teape

Nov 17, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) dribbles the ball as New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) defends during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 17, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) dribbles the ball as New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) defends during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Knicks vs Charlotte Hornets: 5 Players To Watch In Home-And-Home
Nov 20, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) shoots on a technical during the second quarter against the Atlanta Hawks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

Kristaps Porzingis

Porzingis put in a lot of work in the offseason. He continued to refine his jump shot and added strength to his lower body so that he could finish at the rim better. So far so good for the second year player from Latvia.

Porzingis has been outstanding for the Knicks this season. He has really begun coming on in recent games, scoring 30+ points in two of his last four games, including a career-high 35 against the Detroit Pistons.

The 7-feet-3 inch Porzingis makes a difficult matchup for virtually anyone. He can shoot like a perimeter player and has grown his ability in the post. Forcing him on the perimeter and he has the skills to blow by bigger defenders. Put a smaller player on him and he is beginning to take full advantage by just shooting over them.

The Hornets have a number of players they can attempt to have defend Porzingis. Marvin Williams should have the first shot but could also face off with Kidd-Gilchrist, Spencer Hawes, and Frank Kaminski. The Hornets should key in on slowing down Porzingis has they are beginning to run their offense through him more and more.

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