New York Knicks: 5 Takeaways From Their Homestand

Willy Hernangomez Can Play

The Knicks have battled a multitude of injuries throughout the season. Joakim Noah suffered another one right at the beginning of the homestand, opening up minutes in the frontcourt.

Noah was injured in the game against the Cavaliers. He hurt his hamstring and played only six minutes in the game. He is expected to be out through the All-Star break, which opened up playing time at center. Willy Hernangomez started only one of those games, but he proved that he can play and deserves major minutes going forward.

Hernangomez has been very productive for the Knicks every time he has stepped on the court. On the homestand, Hernangomez averaged 10.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.0 steals per game. Those numbers all came in only 23.6 minutes per game; he scored 12 points with four rebounds in nine minutes against the Nuggets.

Noah has struggled this season to stay healthy, which has hurt his effectiveness on the court. The Knicks have reportedly already admitted defeat on the Noah deal, as they plan to move him to the bench next season.

Noah may not last this season as the starter. If Hernangomez continues playing at the level that he has, he needs to see more playing time. The Knicks also have Kyle O’Quinn to soak up minutes in the frontcourt as well.

But, at only 22-years old, Hernangomez is the future at center for the Knicks.