New York Knicks First Quarter Season Grades

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Nov 30, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) during a game at Target Center. The Knicks defeated the Timberwolves 106-104. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

Porzingis is taking some major steps in his development in his sophomore season. During the offseason, he worked on adding strength to his lower body and it is paying off in a number of ways. He is standing his ground better on defense and his efficiency has shot up offensively as he has a stronger base underneath him. Despite the progress, it is evident that there is still plenty of work to do. His performance on the second nights of back-to-backs is surprising, but he is still only 94 games into his NBA career. The sky is the limit and we are seeing that on an almost nightly basis in some fashion. Per Game Averages: 33.9 MIN, 19.9 PTS, 7.4 REB, 1.3 AST, 0.59 STL, 1.68 BLK, 19.3 PER. Power Forward. New York Knicks. KRISTAPS PORZINGIS. A-

C. The Knicks liked Ndour during the offseason in 2015. But, they didn’t have a spot in training camp and he took a more lucrative deal with the Dallas Mavericks, where he was a final cut. He returned to the Knicks this past summer, and this time, he earned a spot not only in training camp but on the regular season roster. He spends most games in a suit on the inactive list, but is someone the Knicks would like to develop. He has the skills to succeed in a high post offense and has the size to be versatile on defense. But, as long as the Knicks are healthy, Ndour will find it difficult to get on the court. He just isn’t ready to produce at this level.. Power Forward. New York Knicks. MAURICE NDOUR

A. O’Quinn is listed as a center, even starting multiple games for Joakim Noah, but also plays power forward for the Knicks depending on the lineup. He lost some weight this offseason and the work he put in is evident. He provides excellent per-minute production, as he is a monster on the boards when on the court. He is efficient on offense with a steady jumper and low post moves. He has earned minutes on a nightly basis as he is arguably the most consistent performer for the Knicks this season. He and Brandon Jennings have combined for multiple highlights this season as the two have great chemistry. O’Quinn even helps on the payroll; his $4 million per year salary is a steal. O’Quinn has been outstanding for the Knicks through the first quarter of the season as Noah relief and a consistent performer on the second unit. Per Game Averages: 14.7 MIN, 5.7 PTS, 4.8 REB, 1.1 AST, 0.27 STL, 1.23 BLK, 20.1 PER. Power Forward/Center. New York Knicks. KYLE O'QUINN

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