On a New York Knicks team that isn’t poised for a big season, Willy Hernangomez should become a focal point of the Knicks starting lineup this year.
This past summer, the New York Knicks cut ties with team President Phil Jackson. The move was applauded by many fans who were frustrated with the way that Jackson built the team and conducted his business.
While Jackson’s time had its pitfalls, one positive (other than Kristaps Porzingis) that he is responsible for is acquiring Willy Hernangomez.
Hernangomez was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round of the 2015 NBA Draft. The Knicks would then trade for the rights to sign him in exchange for two future second-round picks and cash considerations.
In 2016, Willy would make his debut for the Knicks and he flourished. His highly efficient play off the bench early on led to an increased role in the rotation with the second unit.
His performance in his rookie season didn’t go unnoticed as he was selected to the NBA All-Rookie First Team.
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In 18.4 minutes per game, Hernangomez averaged 8.2 points per game and 7.0 rebounds per game (Basketball Reference). His player efficiency rating was 19.0, exactly 4.0 higher than the league average.
If he could produce those numbers off the bench with limited minutes, an expanded role as a starter this season has to be enticing to not only the fans but also the front office. Basketball Reference lists Hernangomez’s numbers per 36 minutes as 16.0 points and 13.6 rebounds per game.
When you consider his competition at the center position (Joakim Noah and Kyle O’Quinn), Hernangomez boasts the most upside.
Noah is an oft-injured big man with minimal offensive ability. O’Quinn, while a more than serviceable big man (PER of 20.5 last season), is best suited in the second unit where he can help some of the younger players while providing a strong inside presence off of the bench.
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For a New York Knicks team that is surely not in a “win now” mindset, playing the kid with a ton of upside makes sense. Let him show everyone what he can do in a season that’s being used to develop building blocks for the future.
Hopefully, Willy Hernangomez can be a part of more successful seasons down the road.